Jamie Chambrelli prepares to launch a throwline with the DTX Shoulder Shot Tree Toppler, a new throwline launching tool from DTX Tooling LLC. TCIA staff photo.

In the world of tree care, tools that save time and energy are always worth a second look. Whether you’re shooting lines into towering pines or isolating an anchor point in dense foliage, a reliable device that can get the job done is a game changer.

Recently, TCI Magazine asked two seasoned arborists to review the DTX Shoulder Shot Tree Toppler – a new throwline launching tool with notable reach and power from DTX Tooling LLC, a first-year TCIA corporate member company based in Austin, Texas. But, as with any new gadget, the question was, would it hold up in real-world conditions?

Brandon Eldridge of Girard Tree Service, a 17-year TCIA member company based in Gilmanton, New Hampshire, and Jamie Chambrelli of SavATree, an accredited 39-year TCIA member company based in Bedford Hills, New York, were tasked with putting this device through its paces. If there’s one thing arborists know, it’s that what works on paper doesn’t always translate to the trees. Below are their combined comments and initial reactions to the Shoulder Shot.

Power meets potential
Right out of the gate, the most obvious strength of this launcher is its sheer power. With a well-pressurized shot, the DTX Shoulder Shot Tree Toppler was hitting heights that could make a 90-foot pine look treezy-peasy. Eldridge noticed that for deadwood pruning in tall trees or setting lines in conifers with dense canopies, this tool sends it. Ultimately, it could handle trees more than 200 feet tall with ease, which is where this thing earns its keep. If you’re tackling big timber, it’s a time-saver – no question.

Of course, power alone isn’t enough. Accuracy matters, and here’s where things get interesting.

The aiming game
The DTX Shoulder Shot Tree Toppler has no sights or guidance system, which makes aiming a bit of an art form. Without a clear line of sight to follow, both Eldridge and Chambrelli found their shots consistently pulling to the right, sometimes missing by a solid 4 feet. At greater distances – or higher into the canopy – that margin for error will only increase.

Chambrelli compares it to shooting a shotgun. “It’ll get you close, but you’re not hitting a bullseye every time.”

That said, accuracy improves with practice. For arborists who take the time to dial in their aim – especially when working with a second operator to stabilize and adjust – the results can be impressive. During one round, Eldridge braced the launcher against a tree trunk for stability, and the improvement was clear. Stability makes all the difference, especially with the device’s noticeable recoil.

Practicality in the trees
So, where does this launcher fit into the arborist’s toolbox? Brandon notes that it’s not going to replace the hand throw or that “big slingshot” for small or medium trees. For tasks like crown raising or setting low anchor points, traditional methods remain quicker and more efficient. But, when you’re dealing with tall pines or oaks where height is a challenge, this tool starts to make a lot of sense. It’s situational, yes, but in the right hands and the right circumstances, it could become a real time saver.

The Shoulder Shot pairs with a standard bike pump, but achieving the right pressure manually took a very long time. A small, portable air compressor proved far more practical and efficient. Chambrelli notes, “If you’ve got a compressor with you, you’re golden.” For arborists who work in remote areas, investing in a compact compressor or portable power station might be worth it.

Safety and durability
Eldridge notes that the launcher felt solid and well constructed. The plastic barrel posed no concerns, and the safety mechanism was intuitive, though Chambrelli says it’s worth double-checking that it’s engaged – especially for left-handed users, where misalignment can occur.

Durability is not an issue. After repeated use and a bit of rough handling, the tool showed no signs of wear during the field tests. It’s built to hold up under pressure – literally.

Final thoughts
Is the Shoulder Shot a must-have for every arborist?

Probably not.

For smaller jobs, you’ll stick with your hand throws or your trusty giant slingshot. But for tall trees, dense canopies or tricky setups that demand height and power, this tool could prove to be a valuable addition to the gear bag. Once you’ve dialed it in, the launcher can save significant time and effort on big jobs. For the arborist who’s regularly working above 100 feet, that’s worth considering.

Tchukki Andersen, BCMA, CTSP, is staff arborist for the Tree Care Industry Association.

This review reflects the thoughts and opinions of the reviewers as users and does not constitute or imply an endorsement of the product referenced, nor is it an endorsement of any specific company, product or service. Every entity or individual should review and test all products for applicability, safety and efficacy in their particular operation.

TCI Magazine product reviews are available to TCIA corporate members as a benefit of their membership. Certain limitations apply. Contact advertising@tcia.org for more information.