Right spooler for kite

[WCharlier]

I thought it would be a good idea.... I saw this new kind of reel for kites - a ring about 10 inches with a handle in the middle and a knob on the outside ring.  I put up my 8 foot box delta with it, and it almost broke my wrist.  With the kite up only about 200 feet, it was pulling so hard, I could not reel it in unless someone else was working with me to take up tension on the string.  So I guess my question is what is the best equipment to use for a larger kite like this?

[frob]

On 8/23/2024 at 11:36 AM, WCharlier said:

I could not reel it in unless someone else was working with me to take up tension on the string

Just like a winch or anything else with wrapped lines, it should never be stored with high tension. 

Bring the kite down either hand-over-hand (always wearing gloves) or using a block with a pulley or a large carabiner, or whatever else that can slide easily across the line without damage.  Start at the anchor, and slowly walk toward the kite bringing it down one step at a time. For a strong-pulling kite it may take more than one person's weight and strength. Be very careful when doing it, as a gust of wind can cause it to re-launch. Make sure you never get the line wrapped around a finger or hand or under an arm during the process, and if the kite takes off with a gust let go instead of getting injured, which sadly occasionally happens.  If you've been around the kite circuit for a while you'll meet people missing a fingertip or have had other major injuries, and hear the horror stories from years past where a few people have died and others needing major reconstructive surgery.  When you've walked the line down, detach it when you reach the tow point.

With the kite on the ground, it is easy to wind the line up with minimal tension, just hand strength to keep it on.