Quickdraw extenders + other things
Question
Hello!
I would like to ask a few questions:
1. i have 6 10 cm quickdraws that i use in indoor climbing, I am starting to so some sport and trad routes so i think i need to get some extenders for my QDs. Ive seen the Petzl Express (http://w01-0504.web.dircon.net/acatalog/Main_Menu_Petzl_Quickdraws_140.html) extenders and would like to know if they are the right thing for trad and sport because ive heard that they are not good for trad.
2. Ive seen and heard about Daisy Chains, but ive no idea what they are for!
3. My last question is a basic begginers rack trouble. I have been climbing indoors for about 4 months, and the weather here is just starting to pick up (in England), so ive started sport and seconding trad climbing. I want to start leading so ill need the necessary gear, ive read info and spoken to people about what i need but im still not sure.
my current gear is:
*Petzl Reverso (belay)
*1 HMS krab
*Sit harness
*2 12mm screwgate krabs
*10.2mm 50m single rope
*1 Wild Counrty Ropeman (ascender)
*2 prussik loops
*1 120cm dyneema sling
*6x 10cm snapgate quickdraws
I would like to know what else i will need to start leading. However i am on a tight budget so i wont be buying it all at once so could you tell me what order to get the gear.
Thanks a lot
Stephen
Answer
For trad routes I would recomend you buy slings. They are much more usuful. They can be extended or shortened has needed.
Daisy Chains. Daisies are nice when you get into Aid climbing, but for general purpose you don't need them. The are normally long sling with sewn loops alnog the way. Each loop allows you to clip a biner to shorten or lenghten as needed. Avoid them for now.
A trad rack will very from Area to area, I have not done any climing in England, but I would say get:
A set Of nuts (10 to 13 in a set, depanding on company)
Set of Hexes
Set of cams to three inches.
Buying gear in the order listed is fine.
climbing assidents
Cochise Stronghold, beginner trad