steve_in_spokane

I have used the GriGri several times for self belaying on top rope and setting routes in the gym. One thing that I found works well is tying up all extra rope so that it is hanging a foot or so off of the ground. This typically provides enough weight to allow the GriGri to self feed so you can think about climbing instead of pulling up slack every three moves. Just keep in mind that it is really easy for your 'biner to get cross loaded in the event of a fall if there is slack in the system.

Hat's off to Marty Bland for the publication of the new guidebook Inland Northwest Rockclimbs. This book covers a good majority of the crags that are within a couple hour drive of Spokane. Not only is the book informative, the route descriptions are quite entertaining. Also, this is the only guide book that I am aware of that was able to work the word "jackassery" (p.43)into the text. Well done Bland. If you have not picked up a copy of this book and are looking to head to the east side of the state, I highly recommend getting a hold of a copy. Check out the book at www. inlandnwclimb.homestead.com/inlandnwclimb.html This is much needed book for this region. Thanks again Marty for all of your work.