Quote:
Originally Posted by Therrin  <nods>
... With gaffs, where's the weight of your foot resting? when force is applied, how is it distributed? How is it different with crampons? ...
Might want to check on strength of materials in the crampon spikes, and whether they'll hold up with regular use in different types of wood, instead of ice. |
The difference is with the axes, with a "flip line" (I'm picking up the lingo) there is only one point of attachment, the line. Other than when flipping it, the hands and arms are passive.
The axes each provide a point of attachment, and one I would put forward as more secure against slippage than the flip line. Your weight is distributed among all four of your limbs, the percentage of which is controlled by you.
To move up or down with the flip line you must commit your weight to the feet alone to flip the line. With axes when moving up or down you still have three points of attachment at all times (not counting the lifeline, which makes four).
As to the strength of these climbing tools they most likely exceed the strength of your climbing strap (flip line?). They are not your boy scout camp axe, they have high carbon or chrome-molly steel blades, 4mm thick. These are "T" class blades, there is a lesser standard in climbing that uses a 3mm blade to promote flexability while set in ice. I wouldn't recommend those, but they would probably work too.
We are talking about climbing and suspending ourselves 50 or 100 above the ground, with these things there are people hanging 1000's of feet above rocky terrain, having climbed to that height by pulling themselves up ICE to get there.
Aerial