Article Surfing Archive

Climbing is a sport that requires a lot of equipment and due to the risks involved with the sport it is essential to master the techniques for using the equipment. Rope is part of the basic equipment for climbing and it's composed of nylon material. It has some elasticity so it can provide some leeway in case of an accidental rapid decent. There are two basic robe techniques used in climbing

The most common technique is the single rope and it's usually used on straight climbs. Anchors are used to secure the rope with the aid of karabiners which are metal loops with a spring opening. The line is usually secured by a cam which is a device inserted into the rock to provide a hold. The rope is then tied to the 'pro' which is any protective gear such as nuts, cams, etc. Various knots are used for tying the rope such as a Prussik or Klemheist knot.

Descending is accomplished by putting friction on the rope by using a belay such as a Figure 8, a Petzl stop or a similar device. Relying solely on using the friction of a glove to slow decent is never intentionally used; only in emergencies is it necessary.

The single rope slinging method is more cost effective in the short term since less rope is used but there is more wear on the rope so it has to be replaced more frequently.

The other common method is the double rope technique. Since there are two ropes used, the thickness can be a few centimeters smaller. The two ropes are either placed close together or a few inches or feet apart. The ropes are threaded in a zigzag pattern with cams, nuts, pitons and other pro. The weight is distributed more evenly than the single rope method. Pros are placed at angles so the wear is less and if a stay comes loose then there is less of a fall. The double rope technique has more of an initial cost since two ropes are used but there is less wear to the ropes so replacement is less frequent.

Rarely used is the twin rope method. It's a combination of the two methods. Two ropes are used but they are threaded just as the single rope technique. The thickness can be that of the double rope method since two ropes are used. The technique is slower to use and with a variety of ropes to choose from it's rarely needed.

Climbers must master these techniques (along will a number of other techniques) to be able to safely enjoy mountain climbing. A novice should never try it without professional classroom instruction.