Climbing Caribeaners
What is necessary equipment for top climbing?
I have recently began rock climbing with some friends on some local granite faces. I always use my friends equipment because i have none of my own. I prefer to do top climbing and i want to buy some equipment for myself and one other person. (Equipment for a climber and for a belayer) What is the necessary starting equipment? And how many of each should i get? (Such as: how many caribeaners would i need)
This depends on the specifics of the location, but the bare minimum list would be:
dynamic climbing rope, two harnesses, two locking carabiners, 1 belay device, two helmets, anchor for the top point
This last requirement (anchors for the top point) is what makes the list highly dependent on specifics. This top anchor is the most important component (it bears all the load and failure here would mean a ground fall inevitably) and the most complex to properly setup. It could be as simple as throwing two slings around a tree and clipping the rope through two locking carabiners (ALWAYS use at least two anchor pieces…for example dont put a single sling around a tree, use at least two), or it could consist of a complex anchor with several different equalized pieces of rock protection. You will need to purchase a book on rock climbing anchors (I highly suggest “Rock Climbing Anchors: A Comprehensive Guide” by Craig Luebben) and/or take a class from a certified guide/instructor. I have seen some scary anchors setup by novice top ropers. Top roping is the safest way to climb, but ONLY if done properly. So back to the list, this top anchor could consist of several pieces of rock protection (stoppers, cams, tricams, etc.), several carabiners, and several slings or lengths of cordelette…so you will need to see what anchor you will be building at the top of the climb to know what materials to buy. In addition to this, you may need another locking carabiner and a sling/cord and possibly a piece of pro or two for an anchor for the belayer (anchoring the belayer is not always necessary and not always ideal, but you will need to learn when/why to anchor a belayer to make that choice…I believe this is also taught in the book I recommended).
Basic Rock Climbing Gear : How to Use Carabiners While Rock Climbing
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Technical Rescue Unit Decal Sticker $1.99 … |
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Rothco Black 80-mm Locking Carabiner $2.99 This carabiner is heavy duty durable and reliable. One of the most universal use tools you can carry… |
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24 PCS of Aluminum Round Carabiners in Assorted Colors, Gift Idea $15.50 Model: CARJ-AL18005Size 5cm: Diameter 2″, Thickness 1/4″Colors vary in in black, silver, blue, cool blue, red, green, yellow, purple, plumFeatures:** Made of high-strength aluminum alloy** Quickly and securely clipped to your belt, bag strap, etc.** Dozen pack can be shared with your friendsComes in random colors; maybe be different from the picture.ATTENTION: NO load bearing, DO NOT use for climb… |