Traditional Lead Climbing: A Rock Climber's Guide to Taking the Sharp End of the Rope

"Traditional Lead Climbing" is intended to teach rock climbers how to lead with gear. This invaluable book gives step-by-step descriptions of equipment, rope management, and techniques. Dozens of close-up photos and fun yet informative drawings show situations climbers might encounter and how to deal with them.

For intermediate climbers who already have experience with roped climbing, this guide explains how to lead a climb with gear. It is not intended for beginners. She first describes how traditional leading fits with roped rock climbing as a whole and the challenges involved, hardware and tools, transitioning from the gym to outdoors, and skill building in low-risk environments. Chapters that follow discuss advanced trad lead skills, such as multipitch techniques and self-rescue; knot and rope craft; and ratings, climbing etiquette, and impact and access issues. Advice from traditional leaders, b&w photos, and illustrations are incorporated. A working knowledge of basic climbing equipment and simple systems like belaying, top-roping, and leading is assumed. Techniques described mainly refer to roped free climbing on rock. Pesterfield, a freelance writer, is also a rock climbing and outdoor recreation instructor. Annotation ©2007 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)