Climbers carry Prusik cords mainly for emergency use, as they are lighter than other options.

Prusiks provide a strong attachment that will not damage or break the rope, and so are used in some rope-rescue techniques.

If loaded to great excess, the worst result is that it slides until the heat of friction causes physical failure of the Prusik cord, rather than the rope.

Most mechanical rope-grabs work like a ratchet, moving freely up the rope, but grabbing when a load is placed down on them.

Traditional Prusiks (such as those shown below) will grab when pulled by the tail, either up or down, and will slide either way when pushed by the barrel.

Although the Prusik Climb technique may be seen as outdated by some, the US Army still includes it in its annual Best Ranger competition.

Mechanical devices (such as jumars) to grab the rope are available that are easier and faster to use, but heavier, more expensive, and bulkier.

A short piece of rope spliced to form a circle is called a becket.

[5] Note that Dyneema/Spectra has a very low melting point and should not be used in Prusik hitches unless the cord or sling is specifically engineered for it (as seen in some sheathed constructions).

In addition, smaller diameter cords often jam too tight when placed under load, and are hard to handle when wearing gloves.

When weight is removed, the loop can be moved along the rope by placing a hand directly on the barrel or pushing it from "behind".

This unwinds the barrel wraps to loosen the grip of the hitch, and makes movement easier.

Note: Step 2 is also called a girth hitch (a single wrap) and is not a good Prusik (yet).

Note: Step 4 has a twist in the webbing that is inconsistent with the preceding images, but will not affect use except to make it slightly more difficult to loosen after a heavy loading.