Knowledge

Looking to get into trad climbing? To get started, you’ll need to learn the Tools of the Trad, what kit you need, and how to use it.

IFMGA Guide Tim Neill shares his perspective on decision making when carrying a Mountaineering Axe

Even these steadfast companions need a little TLC once in a while.

A step-by-step look at how to inspect and maintain your carabiners as part 2 of DMM's Ready for Rock series.

Don’t lose your bearings – check out this video for help navigating your way through pulley maintenance.

The performance and lifespan of DMM cams will benefit from regular cleaning and inspection.

Compact Shackles can be found in a number of DMM products. Some basic maintenance will keep them squeak-free.

Impact blocks work hard yet generally receive very little maintenance. See how to give these workhorses a bit of TLC.

How to check the condition and establish the age of your slings and ropes. The fourth part in our 'Ready for Rock' series.

A climbing 101 that is a cornerstone for more complex set-ups. In conjunction with Glenmore Lodge, we take a concise look at this essential ropework skill.

A step-by-step guide to aid with the inspection and maintenance of DMM auto-locking carabiner gate mechanisms including gate function tests.

Mountains don't come much more iconic than the Matterhorn. Mountain guide, Dougal Tavener, outlines what is involved and how best to prepare for tackling its Hörnli Ridge.

What amount of force is generated by a falling climber, attached to their anchor points using nylon or Dyneema® (Dynatec) slings, if there is slack in the system? Using your rope is the ideal option in terms of reducing the load on the anchors. 

George Smith attempts to explain some of those things you’ve always wondered about pulleys, but were afraid to ask.

Here George Smith presents a few pointers for anyone intent on a basic qualification in the rope access industry. Do you have what it takes?

The Regulations set out a simple hierarchy for managing and selecting procedures and equipment for work at height.

After James McHaffie and Calum Muskett's recent Yosemite success, with free ascents on El Cap of the Pre-Muir and Golden Gate respectively, they share some of their hard won big wall wisdom.

George Smith from Outreach Rescue sheds light on the different types of rigging, the forces involved and considerations to be made when assembling rope systems.

Working on rope rescue systems over water can be very problematic, with multiple risks and limited guidance, then again… it can make for a soft landing!

Not all connectors are the same and so choosing the right one for the job in hand can be a daunting task. Different shapes, materials and locking mechanisms form a bewildering array of choice. Add in the potential for captive eyes, swivels or pulley variations and the list of options is vast.

Rocio Siemens is a freelance mountaineering instructor based in North Wales and has recently been accepted on to the British Mountain Guide scheme. She regularly puts our kit through its paces in the course of her work and climbing for herself. Rocio sent us a short piece outlining why her Boa biners are so handy in winter