A load-handling device for lowering a limb from a tree comprising a base having an elongated plate, at least one cylindrical protuberance secured to the base, and a plurality of non-penetrable teeth extending outward from the base toward the trunk of the tree. The load-handling device also includes at least one pair of opposed brackets that can be engaged by a strap encircling the trunk of the tree. The non-penetrable teeth frictionally engage the load-handling device against the tree so that the device does not move when the tree limb is cut and the weight of the limb pulls upwardly on the load-handling device via a pulley.