I've attempted partial several times over the last few months, both with a belt and a necktie, the last time being about two weeks ago now. The last time with the tie, every other time was with the belt. The tie was much more effective than the belt, as the pain I felt was more intense and I came much closer to blacking out, so I would advise skipping the belt unless there's nothing else to hang yourself with. The necktie still mainly made me choke and gag more than anything else though, but I assume it's from the noose putting pressure on the trachea instead of the carotid. Something I'll keep in mind when I attempt again tonight and tomorrow night if I fail is to position the noose better.