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Analysis of Rappelling Accidents with Two Strands of Rope
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jonescd


Oct 12, 2006, 10:16 PM
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Analysis of Rappelling Accidents with Two Strands of Rope
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In looking at posts from another thread about an accident at Table Rock, two questions need to be asked. And yes moderator, this is important for climbers to consider as it is not uncommon or well educated to the climbing community about how these types of incidents might occur as to save lives. However, I ask in this thread that we educate and do not look for fault.

Was the addition of the third biner above the main anchor or below, if above it could pull the opposing strand across the other two gates and then put all of the force on the third which somehow failed. My other thought, and the more probable statistically, is that one strand was locked in the rappel device and the other was not, essentially allowing one strand to zip through (did they inspect to see if the ends were still even?). This type of accident could occur with even a more experienced climber. Another possibility is that the other rope had a much greater stretch elongation than or the other was of a much smaller diameter allowing a stretch effect through the device. For the knot to make a popping sound makes me think it simply popped through the biners (the pop could also cause a loss of hand control) rather then coming out of the gates (caused by by one strand zipping past the other)- thus it really needs to be determined whether the ends were without a doubt, even, post-accident. My two cents without criticism of the climber (she sounds very safety conscious) - could happen to the best of them and many of you (and not commonly taught). In my personal opinion the old style eight rings are safer than most devices for rappeling because they don't tend to lock one strand and not the other- which can happen even with a similar diameter. Hopefully we all work to educate each other as safety in climbing is not on a know or not know basis but a process of sharing information between climbers over a very long period of time. It never becomes perfected - that is why the game is a game of risk.

Chris


clmbsfe


Oct 13, 2006, 2:21 AM
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Re: Analysis of Rappelling Accidents with Two Strands of Rop [In reply to]
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Please don't add anything without doing your homework first.

If you read through the thread, you will find the answers to your questions.

This accident was thoroughly investigated by knowledgeable climbers, and all possibilities were evaluated prior to the posting of the final analysis.

Nothing was overlooked.


jimdavis


Oct 22, 2006, 7:15 PM
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In reply to:
In my personal opinion the old style eight rings are safer than most devices for rappeling because they don't tend to lock one strand and not the other- which can happen even with a similar diameter.

Your joking....right?


majid_sabet


Oct 22, 2006, 9:16 PM
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Re: Analysis of Rappelling Accidents with Two Strands of Rop [In reply to]
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in my personal opinion this is safer than most devices for rappeling

http://img129.imageshack.us/...29/8629/hastyia7.gif


tradrenn


Oct 22, 2006, 9:41 PM
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In reply to:
in my personal opinion this is safer than most devices for rappeling

http://img129.imageshack.us/...29/8629/hastyia7.gif

That looks good for caving.

Good luck to you trying to use this set up when you have too rap the roof.


clarki


Oct 22, 2006, 9:49 PM
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Re: Analysis of Rappelling Accidents with Two Strands of Rop [In reply to]
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C'mon man, this incident has been worked over by people who (no offence intended, really!) have a combined experience much greater than your existance on this planet. Have you read the thread completely? Do so and get back to me eh?


billl7


Oct 22, 2006, 11:33 PM
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In reply to:
And yes moderator, this is important for climbers to consider as it is not uncommon or well educated to the climbing community about how these types of incidents might occur as to save lives. However, I ask in this thread that we educate and do not look for fault.
Chris,

I have to give you credit as you have picked up the scent. However, many old dogs are already wwaaayyy down the trail and passed by what you are bringing up and for good reason. If it truely is "... important for climbers to consider ..." then you owe it to yourself (being a climber I presume) to read the whole thread.

Rock on.

Bill L


jonescd


Oct 23, 2006, 12:24 AM
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Yeah,

I read the whole thread and then tried to repost a correction the same day but was timed out on RC.com trying to send the post. The final analysis was given well done. I am giving this not to critique others critiques but just to give food for thought on accident prevention. If I've stepped on Gen Y climber toes then sorry but I still find ATC devices to be much more prone to problems with rappelling (for a multitude of reasons) than eight rings and their weight that others so despise. And if that causes a pissing match then, well, keep it on yourself.


davidji


Oct 23, 2006, 1:23 AM
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Re: Analysis of Rappelling Accidents with Two Strands of Rop [In reply to]
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In reply to:
In my personal opinion the old style eight rings are safer than most devices for rappeling because they don't tend to lock one strand and not the other- which can happen even with a similar diameter.
Have you read about the accidents that have occurred when the fig-8 rap device twisted opened the gate of the locked carabiner? 3 such accidents were discussed in a fairly recent UIAA report. 2 injuries, 1 death. Doesn't disprove your claim, but it's something to think about. Anyway I think ATC type devices are safer.


scrapedape


Oct 23, 2006, 1:36 AM
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In reply to:
in my personal opinion this is safer than most devices for rappeling

http://img129.imageshack.us/...29/8629/hastyia7.gif
Because he's wearing a helmet, right?


clmbsfe


Oct 23, 2006, 1:46 AM
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Re: Analysis of Rappelling Accidents with Two Strands of Rop [In reply to]
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In reply to:

I am giving this not to critique others critiques but just to give food for thought on accident prevention.

It seemed to me, when I read your 1st post, that you were bringing up other possible reasons for the accident. That may not have been what you intended, but that is how I interpreted it (mostly because that is how you wrote it).

Please, peeing is not necessary. There are pros and cons to all gear choices and rope techniques. IMHO the best choice depends on the climber, the route, the partner, and maybe even the weather. It is all situation dependent. For instance, Majid's rap choice might be great for me on a nice slab, after I accidentally dropped my belay device. I can rappel on a figure 8, ATC, stitch plate, munter, or whatever......and I am equally safe on them all......because I know what I am doing. I think that is the key here. You want to point out something you have noticed about rappelling on an ATC (but not an 8) and wonder if anyone else has noticed this as well. I personally have not noticed this, and find it an interesting thing to consider.


jonescd


Oct 23, 2006, 2:19 AM
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If anyone wants to test the general theory out about ATCs locking one rope and not the other then try this. Tie together two ropes on a TR above some very deep water with no rocks at the bottom. One rope is an 11mm and one is an 8mm thread your ATC and rappel very quickly and suddenly try to stop above the water. Post back here if you stay dry. Warning: this is a joke do not try this at home as it may result in an accident.

Sure figure eights might open biner gates if you allow the gate to be in contact with the small eye of the figure eight - which is a major operator error already. I will agree that when rappelling on two smaller diameter ropes (8.5mm) and especially a single smaller diameter rope that an ATC is preferred as it provides more friction than the figure eight. However, on long rappels where heat is being generated, a figure-eight tends to disperse heat much better than does the ATC (larger surface area). Figure eights do not tend to lock up unless you allow the rope strands to cross inside the figure eight. When used properly they will run much more smoothly and are essential for long multi-pitch rappels). I do and have rappelled on ATCs but I still have a preference to rappel on figure-eights when given a choice.


jimdavis


Oct 23, 2006, 3:34 AM
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In reply to:
If anyone wants to test the general theory out about ATCs locking one rope and not the other then try this. Tie together two ropes on a TR above some very deep water with no rocks at the bottom. One rope is an 11mm and one is an 8mm thread your ATC and rappel very quickly and suddenly try to stop above the water. Post back here if you stay dry. Warning: this is a joke do not try this at home as it may result in an accident.

Sure figure eights might open biner gates if you allow the gate to be in contact with the small eye of the figure eight - which is a major operator error already. I will agree that when rappelling on two smaller diameter ropes (8.5mm) and especially a single smaller diameter rope that an ATC is preferred as it provides more friction than the figure eight. However, on long rappels where heat is being generated, a figure-eight tends to disperse heat much better than does the ATC (larger surface area). Figure eights do not tend to lock up unless you allow the rope strands to cross inside the figure eight. When used properly they will run much more smoothly and are essential for long multi-pitch rappels). I do and have rappelled on ATCs but I still have a preference to rappel on figure-eights when given a choice.

I still think your getting waaaaaaaay to hung up on 1 possible issue with a device, that's prooven to be safer, provide more friction, not kink your ropes, have multiple uses, etc.

The 8 is an outdated piece of equipment good for 2 things. Rappeling on 12mm rescue ropes, and rappeling on frozen ropes that won't bend into a tube style device.

You say an 8 deals with heat better? I'll call BS on that...if your worried about heat dissipation, get a Trango Pyramid.

Now, for your test you want someone to get going faster than they're comfortable with...then try and stop suddenly? And you call a figure 8 breaking a biner "user error"??? Your asking people to rap quickly on an uneven set of ropes...without a backup? THAT is user error.

1) If I'm rapping on different diameter ropes, the junction knot will be on the skinny rope side...so you could let go of the skinny line, and just rap on the fatter rope anyway. Problem solved.

2) I'd have a backup friction hitch around both ropes, so I could stop whenever I want. Problem also solved.

And further more, you go to say you can stop much more suddenly on a device with lesser friction (8) than with an ATC? Saying that your test works with an 8 and not an ATC? The ATC has more friction; not being able to stop on it is user error and nothing else.


So, you defend the figure 8 as a "Safer" belay device?
1) there have been numerous accidents associated with 8's breaking or opening biners. Biners break frequently....more than any other piece of gear, cause they're meant to be loaded along their axis, and that's it. When they're loaded over an edge, or torqued on from their side....they break. This is exactly what a Figure 8 can do. Break biners. The same is not true of an ATC.

2) people frequently get out of control when rapping....so you think people using a device with less friction is a safer?

Also, "figures 8's run more smoothly on multipitch rappels"? Oh, so kinking your rope up when you need to do a bunch more rappels is an "essential", and makes things go more "smoothly"? The last thing I'm carrying up on a long multipitch climb is a large, heavy, loud, single purpose, inferior device like a Fig 8.

Lastly...you recommend using an ATC to rap on a single rope of less than 8.5mm??? One, there isn't a certified single rope in that diameter...two, I'm pretty sure that's outside of its diameter usage recommendation from BD...and if it isn't, then it should be. ATC's are not meant for use with half and twin rope diameters. A jaws, ATC-XP, Reversino, etc. are meant to be used with such rope diameters.

I haven't even looked at the Table Rocks incident...but if your using these types of arguments and "logic" to explain your thoughts....then I have to agree with what everyone else has said.

Jim


jimdavis


Oct 23, 2006, 3:38 AM
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In reply to:
If anyone wants to test the general theory out about ATCs locking one rope and not the other then try this. Tie together two ropes on a TR above some very deep water with no rocks at the bottom. One rope is an 11mm and one is an 8mm thread your ATC and rappel very quickly and suddenly try to stop above the water. Post back here if you stay dry. Warning: this is a joke do not try this at home as it may result in an accident.

Sure figure eights might open biner gates if you allow the gate to be in contact with the small eye of the figure eight - which is a major operator error already. I will agree that when rappelling on two smaller diameter ropes (8.5mm) and especially a single smaller diameter rope that an ATC is preferred as it provides more friction than the figure eight. However, on long rappels where heat is being generated, a figure-eight tends to disperse heat much better than does the ATC (larger surface area). Figure eights do not tend to lock up unless you allow the rope strands to cross inside the figure eight. When used properly they will run much more smoothly and are essential for long multi-pitch rappels). I do and have rappelled on ATCs but I still have a preference to rappel on figure-eights when given a choice.

I still think your getting waaaaaaaay to hung up on 1 possible issue with a device, that's prooven to be safer, provide more friction, not kink your ropes, have multiple uses, etc.

The 8 is an outdated piece of equipment good for 2 things. Rappeling on 12mm rescue ropes, and rappeling on frozen ropes that won't bend into a tube style device.

You say an 8 deals with heat better? I'll call BS on that...if your worried about heat dissipation, get a Trango Pyramid.

Now, for your test you want someone to get going faster than they're comfortable with...then try and stop suddenly? And you call a figure 8 breaking a biner "user error"??? Your asking people to rap quickly on an uneven set of ropes...without a backup? THAT is user error.

1) If I'm rapping on different diameter ropes, the junction knot will be on the skinny rope side...so you could let go of the skinny line, and just rap on the fatter rope anyway. Problem solved.

2) I'd have a backup friction hitch around both ropes, so I could stop whenever I want. Problem also solved.

And further more, you go to say you can stop much more suddenly on a device with lesser friction (8) than with an ATC? Saying that your test works with an 8 and not an ATC? The ATC has more friction; not being able to stop on it is user error and nothing else.


So, you defend the figure 8 as a "Safer" belay device?
1) there have been numerous accidents associated with 8's breaking or opening biners. Biners break frequently....more than any other piece of gear, cause they're meant to be loaded along their axis, and that's it. When they're loaded over an edge, or torqued on from their side....they break. This is exactly what a Figure 8 can do. Break biners. The same is not true of an ATC.

2) people frequently get out of control when rapping....so you think people using a device with less friction is a safer?

Also, "figures 8's run more smoothly on multipitch rappels"? Oh, so kinking your rope up when you need to do a bunch more rappels is an "essential", and makes things go more "smoothly"? The last thing I'm carrying up on a long multipitch climb is a large, heavy, loud, single purpose, inferior device like a Fig 8.

Lastly...you recommend using an ATC to rap on a single rope of less than 8.5mm??? One, there isn't a certified single rope in that diameter...two, I'm pretty sure that's outside of its diameter usage recommendation from BD...and if it isn't, then it should be. ATC's are not meant for use with half and twin rope diameters. A jaws, ATC-XP, Reversino, etc. are meant to be used with such rope diameters.

I haven't even looked at the Table Rocks incident...but if your using these types of arguments and "logic" to explain your thoughts....then I have to agree with what everyone else has said.

Jim


majid_sabet


Oct 23, 2006, 5:48 AM
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[quote="jimdavis"]
In reply to:

Lastly...you recommend using an ATC to rap on a single rope of less than 8.5mm??? One, there isn't a certified single rope in that diameter...two, I'm pretty sure that's outside of its diameter usage recommendation from BD...and if it isn't, then it should be. ATC's are not meant for use with half and twin rope diameters. A jaws, ATC-XP, Reversino, etc. are meant to be used with such rope diameters.


Jim

Jimboy
are you 100% sure, if not you may want to change this


majid_sabet


Oct 23, 2006, 7:03 AM
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Jimboy
Slow down, not all devices are bad, each have their own limitation. Some work better than other and at the end, the end user should know what is good for their job. ATC is great device but not for heavy climber with load and or to be used with a wrong size rope ( in shit out of luck situation where low diameter size rope is all you got). 8 does handle things differently, one thing for sure, it can handle any size rope even 6 mm but you need to know how to rig it otherwise you kill yourself.

Rack is the ultimate device, it can handle any size rope, it is made to do long rap like no other devices and you can increase or lower frication as you rap but at the end ,it is heavy and expensive.

Fig 8 by all standard is still the only device (beside rack) to be approved for both military and fire rescue use however, it is hard on rope and it takes practice to be good at it.

At the end and based on my experiences with such devices, almost all rappelling accident are caused by the operator and in every case, their limited familiarity with the device itself was the leading cause of their accidents.

Ps
I own every device but this baby goes with me on evey big wall

http://img86.imageshack.us/.../7836/veo0002jf0.jpg

http://img84.imageshack.us/.../7079/veo0005lf5.jpg

http://img84.imageshack.us/.../5701/veo0009ym6.jpg

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jimdavis


Oct 23, 2006, 7:41 AM
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considering your defense of the dulfersitz as your "rappel method of choice", and your blatent off-color remarks in the "kidnapped climber" thread...I really don't consider you the expert on this.

you cite it being a device certified for use by fire/ military? yeah, cause they're the experts on vertical rope technique....you ever watched the fire department try and do a roped rescue? You could take a nap in the time it takes them to get their shit together. I wouldn't wanna model any of my techniques upon the recomendation of either of these institutions.

You talk about being a heavy climber on a thin rope, or having to deal with thinner ropes than you planned on....ever hear of a super-munter? If I'm packing my bag, and I know what rope I'm using, what I weight, and how it works for me....saying that the figure 8 allows you to rap on thinner ropes is a poor reason for calling it a good device. Climbers need to belay as well as rappel on the rope they use....try using a high friction mode on a figure 8 to belay with.....you can't. SO...it makes sence to use a Jaws, or Reversino, etc. You know what rope diameter you'll be using, and you can belay with the same device.

And just for kicks....tell me why a figure 8 is better to use than a super munter on thin cord? While your at it...why is the dulfersitz your rappel method of choice?

I'm still yet to see why a figure 8 is worth it's weight to any climber not using frozen 12mm lines.

Jim


majid_sabet


Oct 23, 2006, 8:50 AM
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In reply to:
considering your defense of the dulfersitz as your "rappel method of choice", and your blatent off-color remarks in the "kidnapped climber" thread...I really don't consider you the expert on this.

you cite it being a device certified for use by fire/ military? yeah, cause they're the experts on vertical rope technique....you ever watched the fire department try and do a roped rescue? You could take a nap in the time it takes them to get their s--- together. I wouldn't wanna model any of my techniques upon the recomendation of either of these institutions.

You talk about being a heavy climber on a thin rope, or having to deal with thinner ropes than you planned on....ever hear of a super-munter? If I'm packing my bag, and I know what rope I'm using, what I weight, and how it works for me....saying that the figure 8 allows you to rap on thinner ropes is a poor reason for calling it a good device. Climbers need to belay as well as rappel on the rope they use....try using a high friction mode on a figure 8 to belay with.....you can't. SO...it makes sence to use a Jaws, or Reversino, etc. You know what rope diameter you'll be using, and you can belay with the same device.

And just for kicks....tell me why a figure 8 is better to use than a super munter on thin cord? While your at it...why is the dulfersitz your rappel method of choice?

I'm still yet to see why a figure 8 is worth it's weight to any climber not using frozen 12mm lines.

Jim

Jim
You only want to hear your voices in your head, you do not need to hear mine or any one elses, just do what you think is best for you.


jonescd


Oct 23, 2006, 2:52 PM
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Jim,

The ATC XP is a good choice for half ropes but not the only choice and when I said ATC I was not eliminating that option. Why get hung up on semantics? Also, how hot is your locking carbiner and ATC after a speedy 200 foot rappel using an ATC - ATCs are a fairly thin piece of metal to withstand multiple long free rappels. It is a proven fact that surface area helps to disperse the heat of the rappel device. How long have you climbed and taught climbing to say that the ATC is the best rappel device and why are rescue teams not employing the use of this device to do pick-offs of injured climbers (another limitation of an ATC vs a rescue 8). We could get hung up on semantics all day and neither one of us would be 100% right. Running smooth with less friction is exactly why I say that the eight ring is preferred for larger diameter ropes (and yes there are versions of eight rings providing more and smoother friction than the ATC). These ropes tend to get hung up in the device and then jump suddenly when unlocked. One must bring their hand above the device when it locks up just to loosen it essentially moving the safety of having the rope friction across the hip. Try rappelling with an 11mm with the ATC or ATC XP quickly and see if you don't get it to lock up on you and have this problem. Where did I say the eight was a better belay device? I don't agree with that statement other than it is easier on rope wear to belay through the small eye.

Have a good day,

Chris


timm


Oct 23, 2006, 3:04 PM
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Hey All,

This thread has me a little confused. Can someone point me to the original post about the accident and it's analysis ??

Cheers.


jimdavis


Oct 23, 2006, 3:05 PM
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In reply to:
Jim,

The ATC XP is a good choice for half ropes but not the only choice and when I said ATC I was not eliminating that option. Why get hung up on semantics? Also, how hot is your locking carbiner and ATC after a speedy 200 foot rappel using an ATC - ATCs are a fairly thin piece of metal to withstand multiple long free rappels. It is a proven fact that surface area helps to disperse the heat of the rappel device.
In reply to:
How long have you climbed and taught climbing to say that the ATC is the best rappel device and why are rescue teams not employing the use of this device to do pick-offs of injured climbers (another limitation of an ATC vs a rescue 8).
We could get hung up on semantics all day and neither one of us would be 100% right. Running smooth with less friction is exactly why I say that the eight ring is preferred for larger diameter ropes (and yes there are versions of eight rings providing more and smoother friction than the ATC). These ropes tend to get hung up in the device and then jump suddenly when unlocked. One must bring their hand above the device when it locks up just to loosen it essentially moving the safety of having the rope friction across the hip. Try rappelling with an 11mm with the ATC or ATC XP quickly and see if you don't get it to lock up on you and have this problem. Where did I say the eight was a better belay device? I don't agree with that statement other than it is easier on rope wear to belay through the small eye.

Have a good day,

Chris

Rescue teams often use 12mm ropes....slot belay devices don't accept ropes this big. That's just a fact. I was on a high angle rescue team for two year, and trained with 2 other teams in the area. All use ATC for personal rappeling, except for the old army guys that still carry the 8's. Team lowers were performed with a 5 bar rack.

How hot is my device after a speedy 200 foot rappel? I dunno, I'm not a sport rappeler. Rappeling isn't meant to be done "speedily". I've yet to have a signifigant issue with heat dissipation....and I've rapped 300' on a single 11mm line before, and 200' on 10.4-9.7 lines, plenty.

Oh, and I've been teaching other climbers for about 4 years now. I've trained with rescue teams, sponcered climbers, and 2 of the top 3 guides in the northeast, and got my AMGA TRSM from one of them.

ATC's are not jerky. I've rapped on 11mm plenty of times on them. I've also used a Reverso on that diameter rope too.

One must bring their hands above the device to unlock it? Not really....how do you fix your 8 after it inverts into a girth hitch? hmm? and atc's have problems running smooth??? I dont think so.

Sorry,
Jim


jonescd


Oct 23, 2006, 3:19 PM
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Jim,

I've rappelled with eights for 20 years and taught with them at the college level for eight years. Never had one turn into a girth hitch yet but always have a prussik if it does happen. You sound like your AMGA course has taken you into overanalyzing things that work in the world of practice rather than in a textbook of a training course. Anyway, someday you may be faced with long multipitch rappels on Whitesides or another steep cliff and just remember what I am saying. You don't have to but at least you've been told up front. As for rescuers preferring ATCs for rappelling, that is probably correct in Maine for icy ropes as the ATC is nice for scraping the ice off - I also use the ATC for rappelling icy ropes - unless they are so thick with ice that it can't slide - in that case the eight works as you say. I've never seen rescues conducted with ATCs since you can't easily lock them off to get your hands free. I wouldn't want you to rescue me with an ATC= you'd probably heat the device to the point of it failing. Why would you eliminate that safety buffer for your personal rappelling or that of your partner. A nice thick figure eight can still work for a rescuse in a pinch while an ATC is worthless. We could go all day and you could even bring the AMGA onto the forum and it wouldn't make any difference. The ATC has limitations as does the eight. It is not outdated for its advantages over the ATC. What if you needed to get off a big wall quickly during a lightning storm are you going to wait for your ATC to cool on rappel? Send me your textbook quote on that one.


fmd


Oct 23, 2006, 3:33 PM
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In reply to:
In reply to:
Jim,

The ATC XP is a good choice for half ropes but not the only choice and when I said ATC I was not eliminating that option. Why get hung up on semantics? Also, how hot is your locking carbiner and ATC after a speedy 200 foot rappel using an ATC - ATCs are a fairly thin piece of metal to withstand multiple long free rappels. It is a proven fact that surface area helps to disperse the heat of the rappel device.
In reply to:
How long have you climbed and taught climbing to say that the ATC is the best rappel device and why are rescue teams not employing the use of this device to do pick-offs of injured climbers (another limitation of an ATC vs a rescue 8).
We could get hung up on semantics all day and neither one of us would be 100% right. Running smooth with less friction is exactly why I say that the eight ring is preferred for larger diameter ropes (and yes there are versions of eight rings providing more and smoother friction than the ATC). These ropes tend to get hung up in the device and then jump suddenly when unlocked. One must bring their hand above the device when it locks up just to loosen it essentially moving the safety of having the rope friction across the hip. Try rappelling with an 11mm with the ATC or ATC XP quickly and see if you don't get it to lock up on you and have this problem. Where did I say the eight was a better belay device? I don't agree with that statement other than it is easier on rope wear to belay through the small eye.

Have a good day,

Chris

Rescue teams often use 12mm ropes....slot belay devices don't accept ropes this big. That's just a fact. I was on a high angle rescue team for two year, and trained with 2 other teams in the area. All use ATC for personal rappeling, except for the old army guys that still carry the 8's. Team lowers were performed with a 5 bar rack.How hot is my device after a speedy 200 foot rappel? I dunno, I'm not a sport rappeler. Rappeling isn't meant to be done "speedily". I've yet to have a signifigant issue with heat dissipation....and I've rapped 300' on a single 11mm line before, and 200' on 10.4-9.7 lines, plenty.

Oh, and I've been teaching other climbers for about 4 years now. I've trained with rescue teams, sponcered climbers, and 2 of the top 3 guides in the northeast, and got my AMGA TRSM from one of them.

ATC's are not jerky. I've rapped on 11mm plenty of times on them. I've also used a Reverso on that diameter rope too.

One must bring their hands above the device to unlock it? Not really....how do you fix your 8 after it inverts into a girth hitch? hmm? and atc's have problems running smooth??? I dont think so.

Sorry,
Jim


Most fire dept. use 15mm rope Jim. And they are a one time use. Also the ATC your friends are using may be for their personal escape system (personal choice if the oversite committe allows it), but they shouldnt be using ATC for any of the rescues. Rack bars are the NFPA recommended devices. It has been a couple of years since my training, but NFPA 1670 and 1006 should state resuce eights for bail out gear and rack bars for victim rescues. Each department should have an oversite committe to review the current NFPA standards.

NFPA standards are not the AMGA way of doing things, so they shouldnt be compared to each other...


jonescd


Oct 23, 2006, 3:39 PM
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Another issue you bring up is the use of your ropes tied off with the knot as a stopper. Knots can and do stretch through carabiners and cause accidents when this happens. Didn't you read the accident report at table rock where the knot popped through the biners (although in that case they say that both ends were through all biners). Your recommendation that you could rappel on the fat rope and ignore the skinny is frightening and is of concern. You might could tie an enormous knot to try to avoid this problem but then it would get hung up 500 feet up a 1000 foot wall and you'd have to solo to retrieve it or get rescued. Your suggestion to let the knot work as a stopper is a good extra practice to follow as I do even when rappelling with a 9mm tied to a 10.5mm but to think you could take the 9mm out of your device and let the knot hold your weight against the opening of a carabiner hoping it won't stretch through is absurd.


clmbsfe


Oct 23, 2006, 3:44 PM
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For information which spurred this thread, see "Tragic Fatality at Table Rock this weekend" ...... info pages 1-7, analysis page 8, responses to analysis page 9.......


jimdavis


Oct 23, 2006, 5:01 PM
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In reply to:
Another issue you bring up is the use of your ropes tied off with the knot as a stopper. Knots can and do stretch through carabiners and cause accidents when this happens. Didn't you read the accident report at table rock where the knot popped through the biners (although in that case they say that both ends were through all biners). Your recommendation that you could rappel on the fat rope and ignore the skinny is frightening and is of concern. You might could tie an enormous knot to try to avoid this problem but then it would get hung up 500 feet up a 1000 foot wall and you'd have to solo to retrieve it or get rescued. Your suggestion to let the knot work as a stopper is a good extra practice to follow as I do even when rappelling with a 9mm tied to a 10.5mm but to think you could take the 9mm out of your device and let the knot hold your weight against the opening of a carabiner hoping it won't stretch through is absurd.

I'm not talking about pulling a knot through biners I'm talking about pulling it through a rap station, with steel rap rings....much smaller.

12mm is 1/2" what I've seen multiple services use. I'm not talking about "bail out" lines...this isn't the fire dept. I'm talking about personal use on a rescue...moving down ropes to get somewhere...personally.

The device would overheat in a rescue? Give me a break....rappell at a reasonable rate and you'll never have a problem. Of all the multipitch climbers out there, not many rap on figure 8's at the end of the day...there's a reason for that.

FMD, where did I compare AMGA standards to NFPA standards? You speak about how the 8 is certified for rescue....we're debating the ATC as used by climbers for rappelling....NFPA standars don't mean much here...AMGA "standards" might. Show me one top guide who uses a figure 8 to rap in a multipitch setting....show me one.

The 8 is plain and simple outdated...its use is limited to people who need to use NFPA gear...or are too set in their old ways to learn a new, better way of rapping.

To those of you who don't think you can tie off an ATC easilly....you ever hear of a leg wrap? How about the belay escape way....draw your rope through your biner, tie a mule hitch on the spine....draw out a large loop in the mule hitch, and tie an overhand backup around the rap strand(s). There's your standard belay tie-off. Load releasable, and can be performed at any time. I much prefer this to any other way of tieing off an 8.

In reply to:
You sound like your AMGA course has taken you into overanalyzing things that work in the world of practice rather than in a textbook of a training course. Anyway, someday you may be faced with long multipitch rappels on Whitesides or another steep cliff and just remember what I am saying.
Not a day of my course was spent learning from a textbook...all of it was experience based, and taught by and IFMGA guide. Someday I'll be faced with multipitch rappels? Too late...haven't had a problem yet.

If you guys wanna go ahead and haul some extra metal up the cliff with you...go ahead....but doing so offers no signifigant safety benefit.

http://www.rockclimbing.com/...&topic_view=&start=0

Here's some more opinions on the 8.

Jim


jimdavis


Oct 23, 2006, 5:19 PM
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In reply to:
In reply to:
considering your defense of the dulfersitz as your "rappel method of choice", and your blatent off-color remarks in the "kidnapped climber" thread...I really don't consider you the expert on this.

you cite it being a device certified for use by fire/ military? yeah, cause they're the experts on vertical rope technique....you ever watched the fire department try and do a roped rescue? You could take a nap in the time it takes them to get their s--- together. I wouldn't wanna model any of my techniques upon the recomendation of either of these institutions.

You talk about being a heavy climber on a thin rope, or having to deal with thinner ropes than you planned on....ever hear of a super-munter? If I'm packing my bag, and I know what rope I'm using, what I weight, and how it works for me....saying that the figure 8 allows you to rap on thinner ropes is a poor reason for calling it a good device. Climbers need to belay as well as rappel on the rope they use....try using a high friction mode on a figure 8 to belay with.....you can't. SO...it makes sence to use a Jaws, or Reversino, etc. You know what rope diameter you'll be using, and you can belay with the same device.

And just for kicks....tell me why a figure 8 is better to use than a super munter on thin cord? While your at it...why is the dulfersitz your rappel method of choice?

I'm still yet to see why a figure 8 is worth it's weight to any climber not using frozen 12mm lines.

Jim

Jim
You only want to hear your voices in your head, you do not need to hear mine or any one elses, just do what you think is best for you.

You haven't answered my questions, Majid.


majid_sabet


Oct 23, 2006, 5:52 PM
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Jim
Sorry, I did not know you were AMGA certified climber.If you told me this in the beginning, I would not even come to RC. Now I need to sell every thing I got on ebay and get out of this business.

Does any one want to buy my weired looking 8 for $2.00 ? PM me


jimdavis


Oct 23, 2006, 6:21 PM
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In reply to:
Jim
Sorry, I did not know you were AMGA certified climber.If you told me this in the beginning, I would not even come to RC. Now I need to sell every thing I got on ebay and get out of this business.

Does any one want to buy my weired looking 8 for $2.00 ? PM me

My cert has nothing to do with this. I brought it up cause I've spent a good amount of time learning under some experts....that's all. However, there are plenty of us that'd be happy if you weren't posting the usual drivel we've come accustomed to seeing in your posts.

But, if your gonna make claims like you have...then back it up. Or would you rather try and come up with some clever insult to sling, rather than substantiate your claims. Why do you feel that a dulfersitz rappel is safer, in your "personal opinion"?

AND why do you need an 8 to rap in skinny cord, and can't use a Super-Munter?

Your dodging my questions, I presume because you don't have an answer.
So, post up. If you can't backup what you say...you shouldn't say it in the first place.

We're waiting, Majid.


fmd


Oct 23, 2006, 7:04 PM
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In reply to:
In reply to:
Another issue you bring up is the use of your ropes tied off with the knot as a stopper. Knots can and do stretch through carabiners and cause accidents when this happens. Didn't you read the accident report at table rock where the knot popped through the biners (although in that case they say that both ends were through all biners). Your recommendation that you could rappel on the fat rope and ignore the skinny is frightening and is of concern. You might could tie an enormous knot to try to avoid this problem but then it would get hung up 500 feet up a 1000 foot wall and you'd have to solo to retrieve it or get rescued. Your suggestion to let the knot work as a stopper is a good extra practice to follow as I do even when rappelling with a 9mm tied to a 10.5mm but to think you could take the 9mm out of your device and let the knot hold your weight against the opening of a carabiner hoping it won't stretch through is absurd.

I'm not talking about pulling a knot through biners I'm talking about pulling it through a rap station, with steel rap rings....much smaller.

12mm is 1/2" what I've seen multiple services use. I'm not talking about "bail out" lines...this isn't the fire dept. I'm talking about personal use on a rescue...moving down ropes to get somewhere...personally.

The device would overheat in a rescue? Give me a break....rappell at a reasonable rate and you'll never have a problem. Of all the multipitch climbers out there, not many rap on figure 8's at the end of the day...there's a reason for that.

FMD, where did I compare AMGA standards to NFPA standards? You speak about how the 8 is certified for rescue....we're debating the ATC as used by climbers for rappelling....NFPA standars don't mean much here...AMGA "standards" might. Show me one top guide who uses a figure 8 to rap in a multipitch setting....show me one.
The 8 is plain and simple outdated...its use is limited to people who need to use NFPA gear...or are too set in their old ways to learn a new, better way of rapping.

To those of you who don't think you can tie off an ATC easilly....you ever hear of a leg wrap? How about the belay escape way....draw your rope through your biner, tie a mule hitch on the spine....draw out a large loop in the mule hitch, and tie an overhand backup around the rap strand(s). There's your standard belay tie-off. Load releasable, and can be performed at any time. I much prefer this to any other way of tieing off an 8.

In reply to:
You sound like your AMGA course has taken you into overanalyzing things that work in the world of practice rather than in a textbook of a training course. Anyway, someday you may be faced with long multipitch rappels on Whitesides or another steep cliff and just remember what I am saying.
Not a day of my course was spent learning from a textbook...all of it was experience based, and taught by and IFMGA guide. Someday I'll be faced with multipitch rappels? Too late...haven't had a problem yet.

If you guys wanna go ahead and haul some extra metal up the cliff with you...go ahead....but doing so offers no signifigant safety benefit.

http://www.rockclimbing.com/...&topic_view=&start=0

Here's some more opinions on the 8.

Jim

Good. We agree on one thing...You are the one that brought up rescue teams and them using ATC's. My point is THAT the NFPA and AMGA are different organization for different needs and shouldnt be compared. And BTW, I am TRSM certified also. WHooppie....Now if you are a cerified Rock Instructor :D


Partner hosh


Oct 23, 2006, 7:21 PM
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In reply to:
In reply to:
in my personal opinion this is safer than most devices for rappeling

http://img129.imageshack.us/...29/8629/hastyia7.gif
Because he's wearing a helmet, right?

No, it's the sweet outfit he's got on. How could you not be safe with threads like that? Cargo pockets make everything safer. I bet he's got ham sammichies in those pockets on his legs...

hosh.


majid_sabet


Oct 23, 2006, 7:33 PM
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hosh boy
If you are not AMAG GMAC and NFPA certified, you got no business to climb nor to be here jumping in the middle of experts .

put your helmet on and stay out of this


jimdavis


Oct 23, 2006, 7:53 PM
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What if you needed to get off a big wall quickly during a lightning storm are you going to wait for your ATC to cool on rappel? Send me your textbook quote on that one.

Well, it could very well be raining....wet ropes, cooler ATC. Or, I could switch over to a munter for a pitch. Or I could not rap fast enough to heat up an atc badly....as its never happened to me before. Lets not forget that you have to pull your ropes and setup another rappel...time for a device to cool. Oh, and I assuming that have a partner with you, and they have their device, you can do a partner rappel on one device....or both use munters.

There are numerous options....the first one would be to not climb as a front is coming it!

And yet again you bring up textbooks...why? Is it because I, unlike you, have persued professional trainings with some true experts in the mountains? If so, feel free to try and discredit the standards and opinions of professional climbers and guides...I'd looooove to see you try.

Also, you stated that ATC heat up quickly because they're much thiner metal.....well that means more surface area relative to their mass. So, an ATC will cool off quicker than an 8....lets say we both rap for a while and get our respective devices hot....you'll have to wait longer for yours to cool off. What are you gonna do now?

Jim


jonescd


Oct 23, 2006, 7:57 PM
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I'm a guide that has used a figure-eight for years of instructing rock, ice, mountaineering I,II, & III. The eight does lock off much more nicely (by crossing the two ropes inside the big ring) than having to lock off in the ways that you describe. I back this up with leg wraps and have no problem with circulation in my legs because the eight takes the weight (leg wraps alone are lethal). Your examples with the ATC require much more effort and time and most climbers will opt for only the leg wraps which result in loss of circulation since with the ATC not locked they take the weight. Try pulling the extra slack and tying off on a overhanging climb with the ATC. Sure, if I'm shaving weight I'll opt for the ATC but if I'm hauling a bag up the extra weight doesn't matter. 4 years of climbing does not make you an expert on rappel devices even if your mentor was Royal Robbins. Hell Robbins would probably opt for the biner brake rappel. Furthermore, your suggestion on using munter hitches for rappeling multipitch is what is outdated as this wears half ropes like mad and really heats up the locker. How about stop spraying a know it all attitude and take an open approach to what experienced people are trying to share with you. I am listening to some of your suggestions and agreeing with some of them but you agree with none of what anyone else has posted. This signifies that you believe that you are an absolute authority of climbing and climbing safety when in fact your years bring you here as a novice in this arena, even with your classes - being less defensive is much more convincing and constructive to the purpose of education posted as the main topic on this thread. I have multiple criticisms of things that AMGA has done in the past in several of my academic publications, one being the ICORE proceedings in
Charleston, SC. AMGA is about what guides should do (often to avoid lawsuits because they think they have the trademark on industry standards), not necessarily what private climbers should do for themselves. I don't agree with all of their practices or rules and so never even applied. Does that make me old school, not necessarily, safer, maybe. I never trust someone with my safety who has gained most of their knowledge second hand. It takes time to use these techniques, and that includes trying what others suggest, before you claim ultimate unbending authority. I'm sure you are a good guide, but it will take years to be experienced fully on safety.

Some of the most certified people I've known have had the worst accidents that could have been prevented with good mentoring and more time on the rock. In fact, the most certified person for climbing that I know, was terrified on trad, climbed 5.7, and placed their gear in 5 different expanding flakes when I followed him. He also built the belay anchor on multipitch inside a loose flake without any backup and when I said something didn't even acknowledge he had made a mistake. I never climbed with him again and now thie person is an authority in another country on a climbing safety council. Not to that there are no highly experienced AMGA guides, sure there are plenty but I am always cautious of any new up and coming certified climber giving me safety advice. Sure the ATC-xp is a good device but even BD will tell you that it has limitations in certain applications. Do you also like to guide with clients using Grigris. If so you really need to read the pub that I referenced? There are still things to be learned beyond AMGA.


majid_sabet


Oct 23, 2006, 8:01 PM
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jonescd



you are not AMGA, GMAC NFPA certified climber, stay out of this


jonescd


Oct 23, 2006, 8:11 PM
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Jim,

Grow up and knock later. This is my last post to you because this has degraded into silliness. ATCs always get hotter per inch of metal on long rappels - try for yourself - you obviously haven't climbed enough to try both. Less aluminum to absorb and less surface area, end of story- no more silly arguments can disprove that. When ATCs get too hot they can crack and fail. You haven't rappelled fast on an ATC yet because you must not been on big rock enough to ever run from a storm. Someday you may find yourself in this situation. You are qualified for little other than the relaying of second hand knowledge. Be a climber for a while rather than a techie and please let this thread regain its purpose of education. Now with all that said will an ATC work in most situations, yes it will. Is it better for rappelling no it definitely isn't in most situations - I don't care where your education comes from or what tech weinnies think otherwise. People that focus on their climbing as tech weinies are usually the most frightening, paranoid, and prone to accidents and the first to open their mouths to tell others what they think about their fascist climbing practices -- they themselves aren't sure why these practics are supposed to work other than what they have been told by someone they assume has the best authority. Trying things (with a backup) for yourself before trusting them is no substitute.


jonescd


Oct 23, 2006, 8:20 PM
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majid_sabet,

I could care less about the AMGA. I started this thread - you are also fascist thinking that anyone who can comment on safety on RC.om needs to be AMGA. Having AMGA is not an industry standard certification for guiding and it won't be for a long time hopefully. The certification makes novices able to put you in jeopardy in my opinion. I know plenty of people with AMGA toprope (actually most of them, probably like Jim Davis) who have never climbed harder than 5.7 and have no clue about setting good gear for anchors. No substitute for old school experience and you can't buy that. Your buddy Jim here has a license to teach people what he thinks is safe when he is actually very unaware of many aspects of safety as I have reminded him. Your mountaineering experience does look to be valid on your site but you haven't stated your experience yet.


jonescd


Oct 23, 2006, 8:25 PM
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Ok, sorry, your site shows your average trad leading around 5.8. Now I am getting a sense of reason for the defensiveness.


jimdavis


Oct 23, 2006, 8:29 PM
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jonescd



you are not AMGA, GMAC NFPA certified climber, stay out of this

still waiting majid.


jonescd


Oct 23, 2006, 8:31 PM
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Re: Analysis of Rappelling Accidents with Two Strands of Rop [In reply to]
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No Jim, the last comment from me was posted to you.


majid_sabet


Oct 23, 2006, 8:35 PM
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Re: Analysis of Rappelling Accidents with Two Strands of Rop [In reply to]
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In reply to:
majid_sabet,

I could care less about the AMGA. I started this thread - you are also fascist thinking that anyone who can comment on safety on RC.om needs to be AMGA. Having AMGA is not an industry standard certification for guiding and it won't be for a long time hopefully. The certification makes novices able to put you in jeopardy in my opinion. I know plenty of people with AMGA toprope (actually most of them, probably like Jim Davis) who have never climbed harder than 5.7 and have no clue about setting good gear for anchors. No substitute for old school experience and you can't buy that. Your buddy Jim here has a license to teach people what he thinks is safe when he is actually very unaware of many aspects of safety as I have reminded him. Your mountaineering experience does look to be valid on your site but you haven't stated your experience yet.

Jim is not my buddy, he never helps me

Can you help me and teach me to get experience and assist me to become AMGA certified, please.....I will gain more respect here

Thanks


jonescd


Oct 23, 2006, 8:37 PM
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Re: Analysis of Rappelling Accidents with Two Strands of Rop [In reply to]
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Majid,
We still don't know your experience. We have beautiful pictures of mountains on your site and you are not in any of them. Please tell us what has brought you to a position of safety authority.


fmd


Oct 23, 2006, 8:38 PM
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In reply to:
hosh boy
If you are not AMAG GMAC and NFPA certified, you got no business to climb nor to be here jumping in the middle of experts .

put your helmet on and stay out of this


Or eating MRE's instead of ham sandwiches....Pffttt...some people.


jimdavis


Oct 23, 2006, 8:47 PM
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In reply to:
Jim,

Grow up and knock later. This is my last post to you because this has degraded into silliness. ATCs always get hotter per inch of metal on long rappels - try for yourself - you obviously haven't climbed enough to try both. Less aluminum to absorb and less surface area, end of story- no more silly arguments can disprove that. When ATCs get too hot they can crack and fail. You haven't rappelled fast on an ATC yet because you must not been on big rock enough to ever run from a storm. Someday you may find yourself in this situation. You are qualified for little other than the relaying of second hand knowledge. Be a climber for a while rather than a techie and please let this thread regain its purpose of education. Now with all that said will an ATC work in most situations, yes it will. Is it better for rappelling no it definitely isn't in most situations - I don't care where your education comes from or what tech weinnies think otherwise. People that focus on their climbing as tech weinies are usually the most frightening, paranoid, and prone to accidents and the first to open their mouths to tell others what they think about their fascist climbing practices -- they themselves aren't sure why these practics are supposed to work other than what they have been told by someone they assume has the best authority. Trying things (with a backup) for yourself before trusting them is no substitute.

Your call call my points silly, and you bring up cracking an ATC with heat??

You're being incredibly defensive about the mention of my learning AMGA stuff. If you don't like them, fine. But, you don't have a shot in hell at discrediting the opinion of the 2 IMFGA guides I've spoken with about rappel device usage.

I have no problem listening to your points, but you've yet to make one that I think is relevant.

Heat dissipation is a function or surface area relative to mass. You call this point a silly argument....if you don't believe this, then by your logic an anvil will cool faster than a paper clip. A figure 8 will hold heat much longer...by that logic it will also take longer to heat up than an ATC, true.

Tech weenie? Maybe...I like to know precisely how my equipment functions, and how techniques work. I'm anal about it, and have devoted myself to it for the past 5 years. As a result I've got a working knowledge of plenty of skills above the level that I climb at....

But you know what were talking about...a fuckin' rappel device! If you can't see that a figure 8 is a piece of shit in a week...then god help you if you still think it's the cats meow after your years of teaching mountaineering courses (read: frozen ropes and gloves)

Tell you what...you can spend 5 mins rethreading your rope at the next rap station cause your 8 twisted the shit outta it and it's now kinkier than a $2000 hooker...and I'll spend 3 waiting for my ATC to cool down. Sound good to you? :roll:

Jim


majid_sabet


Oct 23, 2006, 8:48 PM
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In reply to:
Majid,
We still don't know your experience. We have beautiful pictures of mountains on your site and you are not in any of them. Please tell us what has brought you to a position of safety authority.

hell no
I am have no AMGA certification to talk about safety authority. As far as photos , I just downloaded a few photos for my site so I could fit in to this forum, that is all.

I never said I was a climber but I know I got to start working on my AMGA paper work to become one.

PS
Is fig 8 safer knot or bowline ? what is good for harness ? I have a test coming up in my gym, I do not want to fail my belay test by this AMGA certified gym worker.

thanks


jimdavis


Oct 23, 2006, 8:48 PM
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Re: Analysis of Rappelling Accidents with Two Strands of Rop [In reply to]
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In reply to:
No Jim, the last comment from me was posted to you.

I know, but he's still hiding behind insults rather than answer the questions I've asked numerous times.

Cheers,
Jim


jonescd


Oct 23, 2006, 8:51 PM
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Majid,

Please don't post here againunless it is to ask a question, since you have no clue about climbing safety yet.

Jim, at least we are on the same page now. Drop the axe and sit by the fire at our campsite.


jimdavis


Oct 23, 2006, 8:54 PM
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In reply to:
[ As far as photos , I just downloaded a few photos for my site so I could fit in to this forum, that is all.

I never said I was a climber but I know I got to start working on my AMGA paper work to become one.

PS
Is fig 8 safer knot or bowline ? what is good for harness ? I have a test coming up in my gym, I do not want to fail my belay test by this AMGA certified gym worker.

thanks

In reply to:
U kall Pigs ,fbi,la immigracion, next time me pull chingata u gringoo u dye for cinco dollares .
http://www.rockclimbing.com/...=121363&start=60#top

In reply to:
Amigo, I sed give me dinero i go LA ,u cheep pendejo caused mucho problemas now La Immigrasion louk for me,next time i tak kar of u esse, remember my face Battoooooooooo, hasta la vista chicoooooo
http://www.rockclimbing.com/...c_view=&start=45#top

For some of the others following this thread, so you can see what Majid had to contribute towards a discussion involving a member of the climbing community having a gun pointed in their face.

Any other enlightening responces you have for us Majid...or do you think you can nut-up now, and substantiate your redicilous claims?

Jim


majid_sabet


Oct 23, 2006, 9:02 PM
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In reply to:
Majid,

Please don't post here againunless it is to ask a question, since you have no clue about climbing safety yet.

Jim, at least we are on the same page now. Drop the axe and sit by the fire at our campsite.


Jones

You broke my feeling about climbing, I never forgive you :(


jonescd


Oct 23, 2006, 9:05 PM
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Re: Analysis of Rappelling Accidents with Two Strands of Rop [In reply to]
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Jim,

I don't have the problems with rope kink that you do. Must be that you are not every weighting your ropes on long enough routes to stretch the kinks out. Do you use an eight ring to rappel to able to comment on this. Again a silly argument since you don't.

Wait a minute I am not responding to either of you further because both lack authority -- this thread is ending as far as my posts unless we get someone who has some degree of authority to comment.


jimdavis


Oct 23, 2006, 9:08 PM
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In reply to:
this thread is ending as far as my posts unless we get someone who has some degree of authority to comment.

So you mock textbooks and the AMGA, yet want someone with a "degree of authority" to comment?


jonescd


Oct 23, 2006, 9:11 PM
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You're right, let's phrase that Degree of Experience to comment. Authority becomes too much like AMGA. You must have got me into a mode of thinking that I need to avoid. Thanks for pulling me out of it.


jonescd


Oct 23, 2006, 9:21 PM
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If someone can find the results of this study we can end the heat dissipation argument:


http://web.mit.edu/2.tha/www/heatdone.pdf


timm


Oct 23, 2006, 9:35 PM
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Re: Analysis of Rappelling Accidents with Two Strands of Rop [In reply to]
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Yet another rc.com pissing match ...

http://badattitudes.com/.../pissing_contest.jpg

:lol:

Cheers.


jonescd


Oct 23, 2006, 9:38 PM
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Yeah,

Alright Jim Davis. Got your PM. Go ahead and post at will. As long as you are in good company, I believe you'll grow into the expert you want to be. Just don't get overanxious.


majid_sabet


Oct 23, 2006, 9:46 PM
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Jimmy
You are stressing over this ATC issue and going after my old posting which has nothing to do with this current AMGA certified discussion.


jimdavis


Oct 23, 2006, 10:01 PM
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In reply to:
Jimmy
You are stressing over this ATC issue and going after my old posting which has nothing to do with this current AMGA certified discussion.

....and your current comments have what to do with this discussion? Still waiting for your explanation, Majid.

Or do you still not have one?

Jim


norushnomore


Oct 24, 2006, 9:29 AM
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Re: Analysis of Rappelling Accidents with Two Strands of Rop [In reply to]
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jonescd, your argument (one rope locked while other slipping) while valid does not apply to this accident.

For you to be accurate she would have to have only one rope threaded thru the belay device or ropes still threaded thru the anchor. Neither is true.

No need to speculate further


jonescd


Oct 26, 2006, 6:24 AM
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Yes, I acknowledged your argument already in a previous post but somehow the thread turned into analyzing the differences between ATCs and Eight-rings. We concluded that they both have their strengths and weaknesses for different applications and we weren't speculating about the Table Rock accident at that point just debating the differences in devices. I personally use three different rappel devices for three different rope situations (depending on the diameter or weather conditions I will choose accordingly). And yes I am guilty of using the ATC to rappel when I must shave weight on the rack for a redpoint.


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