The Purcell Prusik is an adjustable personal anchor system. It is designed with an internal prusik-hitch that allows for an adjustable loop.
Many climbers use “Purcells” in a climbing application. This fine, but there are often easier and lighter options. At AAI, we primarily use these in rope rescue applications for personal anchors. We do this for two reasons. First, Purcells are very adjustable, even after they’ve been clipped to an anchor. And second, the internal prusik can operate as a shock absorber if you fall and shock-load the anchor.
Check out the following video for one way to tie Purcells…
–Jason D. Martin