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Chockstone Forum - General Discussion

General Climbing Discussion

Topic Date User

Trad Racks... 3-May-2004 At 9:49:28 AM deadpoint

Message

Start with nuts as it cheaper to get a decent selection this way.
You must include one sling 50cm+ and two biners (preferable to be lockable) for each placement.
Slings are a must have to prevent rope drag. 10 or so is good number.
One big 2m+ sling and big biner for building fast belays.
Nut tool (do you want to leave that expensive gear behind - give to your second they may not have one !!!!).
It is useful to include 1 medium hex as a 'tapping' device for those tricky placement/removals.
Bolts plates, get the angled ones, they are stronger and fit better in most cases, 10 will be enough to start with.
Belay device
A rope is handy
Harness of course

As time goes by add a few largish hexies and cams when you can afford it.
You can never have enough locking biners.
It took me about 6 years to get my rack to a state where I was happy it would be suitable for most anything.

Don't panic most climbers will lend you gear on the understandering that they may castrate/neuter you if you loose or damage anything.
Climbers in general are very friendly and don't bite ,spit, urintate or otherwise disgrace themselves in public.
Climbers have been observed to perform feats of strength and daring for exchange of food or transport.
Don't be shy, approach the climber with confidence and ask to use their nuts on the understanding the will be handled with the utmost respect and returned in good condition.