The Versatile Workhorse: Why the DMM Pinto Pulley Belongs in Every Kit

In the world of arboriculture, certain tools achieve a near-legendary status not because they perform one task perfectly, but because they perform so many tasks exceptionally well. The DMM Pinto pulley has earned that reputation, becoming a staple on harnesses from pruning jobs to complex removals. Now, with the evolution into the Pinto 2 and Pinto Rig 2, this essential piece of gear has been refined to meet the demands of modern tree care even more effectively.

Arborists are constantly seeking equipment that offers maximum versatility without compromising on strength or safety. The DMM Pinto pulley, whose name cleverly stands for "Pulley I Need To Own," has long answered that call. It is a tool that can be deployed for light rigging, creating mechanical advantage systems, redirecting climbing or rigging lines, and even serving as a primary anchor point. Its true value lies in its ability to adapt to the problem at hand, making it a go-to solution for a wide range of challenges encountered in the canopy and on the ground.

Understanding the Evolution: Pinto 2 and Pinto Rig 2

The original Pinto pulley built a strong reputation, but DMM has refined the design with the new generation. It is important to recognize that while the core concept remains, the specifications and construction have undergone significant changes.

Note: Always refer to the manufacturer's specifications before use, as assuming specifications remained the same can lead to unsafe practices.

The key takeaway is that the Pinto Rig 2 is noticeably larger, incorporating a bigger sheave that creates a more favorable bend radius for the rope. This design keeps more rope fibers evenly loaded and contributes to greater overall system efficiency. Both new versions feature sealed bearings for smoother operation and a recessed sheave design that closes the gap between the sheave and cheek plate, reducing the risk of rope pinch or snagging.

Compatibility and Safe Use

Understanding compatibility is crucial for getting the most out of the Pinto pulley safely. The attachment points on the side plates are designed for cordage, but with a specific condition: a DMM Spacer must be used between the cheek plates when attaching rope or cordage directly through them. This spacer prevents the side plates from being compressed or distorted under load.

For spliced connections, cordage of the appropriate diameter can be spliced directly to each attachment point, but it is vital that both legs of the rope run parallel to each other. They must not pull the attachment points apart in a way that could stress the side plates.

The becket, a dedicated attachment point on the side of the pulley, is fully rated for connection. Hardware can be attached, or cordage spliced or tied onto it. Care must be taken to ensure that whatever is attached to the becket does not obstruct the free spin of the sheave.

Carabiner Choice Matters: The shape of the carabiner used with a Pinto pulley is a critical detail. Oval carabiners are strongly recommended. Their symmetrical shape forces the load to sit dead center, allowing it to be shared evenly between the spine and the gate. This centered loading prevents stress on the pulley's attachment points. In contrast, D-shaped carabiners can cause the load to shift towards the spine, potentially creating a bending force on the attachment point that could damage the pulley over time.

Real-World Applications: A Tool for Every Scenario

The true genius of the Pinto pulley is revealed in the multitude of ways it can be applied on the job. Its versatility transforms it from a simple pulley into an indispensable problem-solving tool.

• Work Positioning Lanyard Enhancement: A Pinto pulley can be integrated into a work positioning lanyard to create a smooth, efficient mini-moving rope system. The rated becket provides the perfect connection point for the returning termination, facilitating smooth slack tending and improved adjustability.

• Compact Mini-Rigging Kit: Climbers frequently find themselves in a situation where a piece of wood looks manageable from the ground but appears much larger from the canopy. A small sling paired with a Pinto 2 or Pinto Rig 2 creates a compact, harness-carryable rigging kit. This setup is ideal for light positive rigging or redirecting rigging lines, providing a solution without needing to descend for heavier gear.

• Efficient MRS Redirect: Redirecting a climbing line in a Moving Rope System (MRS) can introduce significant friction, especially when run directly through a crotch. A retrievable redirect using a Pinto 2 offers a much smoother solution:

  1. Place a sling (like an A.R.T. SnakeTail or a loop sling) around the branch union.

  2. Attach the Pinto 2 to the carabiner on the sling.

  3. Capture the standing or hitch side of the climbing rope in the pulley.

  4. Place the working end (splice leg) of the climbing rope inside the same carabiner, positioning it between the cheek plate attachment points. This creates a clean, efficient redirect.

• Quick Mechanical Advantage Systems: A small mechanical advantage kit, comprising two Pinto 2 pulleys, two carabiners, and two prusik cords, is an invaluable asset. This kit can be deployed for additional pulling power when felling trees, tensioning rigging systems, or handling other tasks requiring significant force. For an on-the-fly setup, a prusik can be attached to the rigging line, connected to a Pinto 2 and carabiner, and then the rigging line's end can be anchored to the tree base or Port-A-Wrap to create a simple but effective 2-to-1 advantage.

• Custom Foot-Locking Prusik: For climbers who use foot-locking, a Pinto can be adapted into an adjustable tether. By passing cordage through the cheek plates (using the DMM Spacer) and creating a continuous loop, a foot-locking prusik is formed. This allows for fine adjustment of the "lock" length to suit the climber's preference and the specific situation.

The Final Verdict

The DMM Pinto pulley's enduring popularity is a testament to a simple but powerful design philosophy. It does not seek to be the flashiest or most specialized tool, but rather the most useful and reliable. Its strength, efficiency, and remarkable versatility allow it to solve complex problems with elegant simplicity. The new Pinto 2 and Pinto Rig 2 models build on this legacy with refined construction, better materials, and thoughtful design improvements.

The true measure of great equipment is how often it is reached for after years of use. By that standard, the Pinto pulley has earned its permanent place in the arborist's kit. It is a rare tool that quietly becomes indispensable, ready to assist with whatever challenge the next job presents.