Battelle's Grappling Hook Gun Helps Scientists in Discovery Channel's New Series "Trailblazers"

COLUMBUS, OH--(Marketwired - May 16, 2016) - Former Navy SEAL Shaun Keilen had Battelle's tactical climbing equipment on hand to assist researchers on a rugged climb over a volcano in Ecuador on Discovery Channel's newest series "Trailblazers."

Keilen is one of three hosts of the show who lead teams of scientists to exotic places around the world on various expeditions. The episode featuring the Battelle equipment aired on May 14.

The six-part series follows the Trailblazer hosts, including Keilen; Gary Humphrey, who served in the Royal Marine Corps Special Ops, and Nick Koumalatsos, who was part of the Marine Corps Special Ops. The teams face harsh conditions, terrains and encounters with wildlife as they try to find the latest scientific discovery while the trailblazers work to make sure everyone makes it through the journey in one piece.

Keilen had some familiarity with a grappling hook gun like Battelle's Tactical Air Initiated Launch (TAIL) system, since the equipment was originally developed for Navy SEALs to assist with tasks such as boarding ships.

It's not the first time survivalists and gadget-lovers have turned to Battelle's grappling hook gun for a key scene in a movie or TV show. The gun has helped Bear Grylls cross a ravine in the popular Man vs. Wild show; been featured on Mythbusters and was used in an escape scene in the recent Hollywood film The Man from U.N.C.L.E.

About Battelle

Every day, the people of Battelle apply science and technology to solving what matters most. At major technology centers and national laboratories around the world, Battelle conducts research and development, designs and manufactures products, and delivers critical services for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio since its founding in 1929, Battelle serves the national security, health and life sciences, and energy and environmental industries. For more information, visit www.battelle.org.