Plinko

When you're in a storm and your picket starts to make a zinging noise, is that a good sign? We were on our way down the Cleaver on Rainier one August when a summer storm rolled in fast with lots of wind, hail, and lightning...kinda freaky when all your lil hairs are standing on end and you realise you're the highest point around. I think it was Edison that made a device that rang some bells when a storm was approaching...turns out there's no need for one of those when you've got a big ol' picket stickin straight up in the air.

The tech cord has a melting point of 932°F (compared to Kevlar's melting point of 260°F)...good point about the Kevlar tho.

I'm looking for a emergency bail line/handline for scrambles and alpine stuff, so I don't have to bring two full-size (10mm)lines. What do you use, and how long? I'm specifically looking at the New England Tech Cord, 5mm (3/16), 5000lb. Thanks all...

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I've got like 7 backpacks, and only one of me...think I have a gear problem? who me? never! Need to thin out the gear closet... Lowe Alpine Contour IV internal frame pack 6400 cubic inches, color is blue with black, adjustable for persons 5'5" - 6'5", hood pocket, top load design with zip-off sleeping bag compartment divider. Has ice axe loops to carry your skis, climbing tools, etc. Made from water resistant rip-stop nylon and fully padded shaped shoulder and hip straps designed for supherb comfort when carrying heavy loads. Purchased in 1998, but spent most of it's life in a lonely dark closet and was only used 2 times, so it looks and even smells brand new. I also have a pair of Lowe Alpine removable side pockets, (an aftermarket accessory made specifically for this pack) which give great flexibility. This is a serious backpack that will last a lifetime. More Details HERE . Asking $95.00/obo Kelty Haiku 3000 This one's brand new and I've got the tags for it, a fantastic pack, but just too much like my Kelty Flight. Backpacker Magazine gave this a "Best Buy" rating in the 2004 Gear Guide, pp24. All the details can be found: HERE REI Outlet has it for 100, plus tax and shipping, so I'll ask $90/obo. Thanks for looking. Plinko bigben@backpacker.com

jcclimber, you might wanna try selling those on eBay...I just unloaded a way used pair of 1998 Buzz 90cm (that I bought new for $90) sold for $125 = $15 for shipping. Crazy. There's plenty o' interest there if you're not in a huge hurry to unload 'em. Good luck