diff --git a/player/player.gd b/player/player.gd
index ae6067b..312d369 100644
--- a/player/player.gd
+++ b/player/player.gd
@@ -65,8 +65,9 @@ func die():
 	# strip gears
 	for gear in $Backpack.get_children():
 		gear.queue_free()
-	$Pivot/Container/Gear.unequip(self)
-	$Pivot/Container/Gear.queue_free()
+	if has_node("Pivot/Container/Gear"):
+		$Pivot/Container/Gear.unequip(self)
+		$Pivot/Container/Gear.queue_free()
 
 	$RespawnTimer.start()
 	message("Le gone")