We have all done it, rushed out the door, grabbed gear, and when we get to the cliff realize that we forgot our rappelling harness. If you know how to make your own rappelling harness your day won't be wasted, and you can still have a thrilling afternoon at the cliff. Making your own harness is simple, and it is a helpful skill to know in emergency situation… read more
A homemade climbing harness won't replace a comfortable manufactured one, but knowing how to make your own webbing harness is a blessing when needed---like when your partner leaves his harness back at the car. This simple webbing harness is low cost, and the webbing required to construct it can sit at the bottom of your pack until needed. Because the webbing… read more
Making a homemade climbing harness out of webbing yields a low-cost alternative to an expensive commercial version. The thin webbing used in making this style of harness cuts into your leg and waist during falls and long hangs, so don't expect it to replace a store-bought harness. Even though it's uncomfortable, learning to make one came be handy when a clim… read more
Arborists use specialized equipment to climb and prune trees. Much of this same equipment is used by linesmen and telephone equipment technicians. Tree climbing provides a way of honing climbing skills and building fitness to the sport climber. Using the proper equipment is key for good training and safety. read more
Kayaks should be stored properly when they are not in use. The best way to store kayaks is by hanging them indoors. To hang a kayak in a garage, all you need is space and a few items, and you can safely put away your boat until your next paddling adventure. read more
Climbing harnesses should be retired routinely just as ropes should. If your harness ever breaks or you need to rescue someone who is not wearing a harness, this method can help you in a pinch. You can make a seat harness using tubular… read more
The practice of climbing on rock, ice and sometimes snow on the same route is known as mixed climbing. Alpinists often encounter conditions on peaks that call for both rock and ice climbing skills, sometimes within the same pitch. This… read more
The invention of modern climbing harnesses in the late 1960s changed the way climbers tied into the rope for ascending and descending. Before climbing harnesses, climbers tied directly into the rope with a bowline on a coil, or made si… read more
The Swiss Seat and Studebaker Wrap are both improvised seat harnesses tied from webbing or rope. Due to the added security and comfort provided, and the ability to take a front or rear clip-in, the Studebaker Wrap is worth the extra fe… read more
Safety first! Before you learn to rappel you must fully understand and accept the risks involved. Hanging over the side of a cliff on a rope is an inherently dangerous undertaking. Done with care and preparation under the instruction… read more
You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
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