Can you use a rescue 8 and just go over the knot?

You can, but rescue 8s are generally inappropriate for canyoneering. I wouldn't carry one just for the unlikely event I might have to pass a knot.

Thanks this method looks good, I was counting on having to support your full weight with one hand while using the other hand to remove the top rappel device which would be strenuous. Your Prusik method looks a lot better I'll have to try it.

I went through a lot of the old threads after signing up and was surprised by how much information there was that I was previously oblivious to, thanks for replying to a resurrected thread:beer:

I agree. However, if a macrame isn't desirable or practical you can run the rope through a small loop of webbing tied to the anchor and block it. Rap, pass knot and at the bottom pull rope back and forth to burn webbing.

Sarcasm doen't always translate well. Best to let others know with maybe a :thmbdn:

Actually, Dave, I was thinking it was a pretty good idea. Back and forth pull might be a little tough in some circumstances, but the rope weight will aid in the sawing action.

When I was teaching rock climbing, I often demonstrated how easy it is to saw through a piece of webbing with a rope going back and forth -- to illustrate how stupid it is to set up top ropes without carabiner interface.

Kurt and Steve demo'd this web/rope sawing process at the BSW in Moab. Impressed me enough not to do this!!!

If all you are doing is sawing back and forth are you not also hurting the rope?

You will cut through the webbing because the friction is being focused on one single point. Friction on the rope is spread over the section that is being rubbed (maybe 5-6 feet). At most you will see some slight burnishing on the rope. You will be amazed at how fast you can cut through the webbing.

A slight burnishing? Is that like "a little pregnant"?