VENTURA, Calif. — Gear Keeper’s new RT3-5605 heavy-tool retractable tether’s ultra low profile keeps tools close to the body when retracted while still allowing effort-free accessibility when extended for use.

Designed for tools up to 3.5 pounds, the retractor employs a very low 7-ounce force to avoid arm strain when extended, but still strong enough to keep the line taught thereby avoiding snagging or interference with the work being performed. When the tool is retracted, lanyard exposure is minimized to avoid snagging, especially when the tool is also placed in a tool bag/pouch.

Using the new Gear Keeper RT3-5605 retractable tether for heavy hand tools is particularly important when working in close quarters or climbing. The new heavy-tool tether has a generous reach that extends 55 inches. It comes complete with a long lasting and strong, impact-absorbing Spectra/Nylon webbing that resists wear and fatigue without the need for an additional shock absorbing lanyard end. Like other retractables in the Gear Keeper line, the RT3-5605 is ANSI-121 compatible and engineered so that the tool, application and recoil/retraction force are in balance.

The RT3-5605 also features a thumb-controlled gear lock that secures the lanyard at any length to reduce arm strain when working with heavier tools. Tools are attached to the user via a Stainless Steel, thumb-controlled, locking-gate carabiner that can be attached to a tool belt or fall-protection harness. Any tool of appropriate weight can be securely attached to the tether by the steel locking carabiner.

The full line of Gear Keeper instrument tethers and accessories are available on the company’s website at gearkeeper.com. A free, 16-page “Safety Engineer’s Guide to Tool Tethering” contains a tethering guide for tools with and without attachment points and related product information is available by calling Hammerhead Industries’ Customer Service at 888-588-9981.