The zipline handle is a game-changing upgrade in Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 Zombies Tag Der Toten map, enabling players to traverse ziplines in both directions and reach previously inaccessible zones like the mountaintop facility. Without it, navigation is limited to descending lines only, restricting access to key areas essential for progression, Pack-a-Punch upgrades, and Easter eggs.
Why the Zipline Handle Matters for Map Mastery
Tag Der Toten features a divided layout: a lower shipwreck area and an upper Nazi facility on the hill. The handle transforms ziplines into bidirectional fast-travel points, saving time amid zombie hordes and opening paths to high-value loot and objectives. It’s required for full map exploration, Golden Pack-a-Punch access, and advanced quests.
- Enables upward zipline travel to the facility.
- Connects spawn, ship decks, lighthouse, and peak areas seamlessly.
- Critical for Easter egg steps involving specimen storage and beyond.
Prerequisites Before Starting the Quest
Ensure basic setup: Activate regular Pack-a-Punch and power the map. Some guides suggest interacting with the Hermit early via rock-throwing mechanics, though core handle acquisition focuses on zipline adjustments. Solo or multiplayer works identically, with fixed spawn points for reliability.
Map Overview and Key Zones
| Zone | Description | Role in Quest |
|---|---|---|
| Stern/Sun Deck | Rear upper deck facing PaP island or lighthouse | One zipline box and crank spawns |
| Main Deck/Forecastle | Front deck with campfire and lighthouse zipline | Second zipline box and crank spawns |
| Lighthouse Level 4 | Top tower platform | Handle delivery point |
| Facility | Mountaintop science base | Post-handle access for quests |
Step-by-Step Guide: Locating the Two Zipline Cranks
Two cranks are needed to tighten loose ziplines—one for Sun Deck (Stern area), one for Forecastle (Main Deck). Spawns are consistent, making repeats straightforward.
First Crank: Sun Deck (Stern) Locations
Head to the rear deck. Possible spots include:
- On the Stern railing facing the golden Pack-a-Punch island.
- On the Stern overlooking the lighthouse.
- Inside the small room by the zombie window on Stern.
Grab the crank—it’s a metallic gear-like object on the ground or ledge.
Second Crank: Forecastle (Main Deck) Locations
Move to the front deck area:
- On Forecastle facing the golden PaP island.
- Behind the campfire setup with the cooking pot.
- Near the zipline leading to the lighthouse on Forecastle.
Pick it up quickly, as zombies spawn nearby.
Installing and Tightening the Ziplines
With both cranks, return to the ship decks. Locate the loose zipline cable boxes:
- Sun Deck Box: Place first crank into the box on the Stern/Sun Deck. Interact and turn until the cable tautens fully.
- Forecastle Box: Insert second crank into the Main Deck/Forecastle box. Crank until aligned.
Visual cue: Cables stop swaying and lock in position. This signals completion.

Claiming Your Zipline Handle Reward
Ascend to Lighthouse Level 4 (castle-like top section). Wait momentarily—a wooden pallet or dumbwaiter descends from the Hermit, carrying the zipline handle. Interact to collect it. Now, all map ziplines support ascent, including the critical one from lighthouse ring to facility.
Pro Tip: Test immediately on the facility zipline for confirmation.
Post-Acquisition: Optimizing Map Traversal
With the handle, unlock efficient routes:
- Lighthouse exterior ring → Facility entrance.
- Ship decks ↔ Peak areas.
- Spawn ↔ High ground for sniping.
This halves travel time, vital for high rounds and Easter eggs like safe interactions in Specimen Storage.
Advanced Uses in Easter Eggs
Beyond basics, the handle enables:
- Golden Pack-a-Punch quests via facility access.
- Realigning ziplines repeatedly if needed for Hermit interactions.
- Specimen room safe code entry.
Common Pitfalls and Troubleshooting
Avoid these errors:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Cranks not spawning | Check all listed spots; power must be on. |
| Handle not dropping | Ensure both ziplines fully tightened; wait at Lighthouse top. |
| Cannot ascend ziplines | Confirm handle pickup; restart if glitched. |
Solo players: Prioritize quick crank grabs. Multiplayer: Assign roles for efficiency.
Zipline Network Full Breakdown
Tag Der Toten’s ziplines form a web:
- Down-only pre-handle: Ship to lighthouse base.
- Bi-directional post-handle: All lines, including hill ascent.
- Strategic spots: Use for rotations during defenses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the zipline handle permanent?
Yes, it persists across rounds in the same game.
Do I need it for high rounds?
Essential for mobility; without it, facility loot is unreachable.
Multiplayer differences?
None—anyone can pick up cranks/handle; shared benefit.
Related to main Easter egg?
Yes, prerequisite for facility steps.
Spawn changes per game?
No, fixed locations every match.
Strategic Tips for Efficient Runs
– Pair with Dead Wire for safe crank hunts.
– Upgrade weapons pre-quest.
– Use ziplines for zombie kiting post-unlock.
Mastering this early elevates gameplay, turning Tag Der Toten’s chaos into controlled dominance.
References
- Tag Der Toten – Zip Line Handle Guide (All Crank Locations) — YouTube (FCtsxexjHyA). 2018-07-25.
- Black Ops 4 Zombies: Tag Der Toten – How To Get The Zipline Handle — Gameranx. 2018-07-25. https://gameranx.com/features/id/182180/article/black-ops-4-tag-der-toten-how-to-get-the-zipline-handle-access-the-full-map/
- Guide for Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 – Zombies – Tag Der Toten — TrueAchievements. 2018-07-25. https://www.trueachievements.com/game/Call-of-Duty-Black-Ops-4/walkthrough/20
- All Zipline Crank Locations and Facility Entrance (Tag Der Toten) — YouTube (kzs0ya7SGKk). 2018-07-25.
- TAG DER TOTEN – CRANKS/ZIPLINE HANDLE FAST GUIDE — YouTube (nmkg7wyTj3g). 2018-07-25.
- Tag Der Toten – Zipline Cranks and Handle — Infinite Warfare Zombies Webflow. 2018-07-25. https://infinite-warfare-zombies.webflow.io/black-ops-4/tag-der-toten

