Want to know more about the equipment used for climbing and mountaineering? Our range of advice guides are full of useful information for experienced climbers and novices alike. We cover the different types and uses of equipment, the standards they must adhere to and detail essential care and maintenance tips.

Bolts - a climbers guide

Learn how to assess the safety of bolts and lower-off's when sport climbing outside with this handy guide.

Download the bolt guide here

Passive protection - a guide for climbers and mountaineers

Essential gear for traditional rock climbing. Everything you need to kow about nuts, micro nuts, hexentrics and camming nuts.

Download the passive protection guide

Hi-res version for printing

Harnesses - a guide for climbers and mountaineers

Fall off and dangle in comfort, whilst carrying all the kit you need by wearing the right harness. Read all about them here.

Download the harness booklet here

Ropes - a guide for climbers and mountaineers

Confused between half, double and twin ropes? Unsure when to retire your trusty sport rope? So were we, until we read this handy ropes guide!

Download the ropes booklet here

Helmets - a guide for climbers and mountaineers

We've come a long way since the heavy fibreglass hell of old school helmets. Help decide on the best helmet for you, and learn how to look after it and when it should be retired.

Download the helmet guide here

Care and Maintenance guide

This handy booklet discusses how to care for your climbing and mountaineering equipment, and when to throw gear away. It is made up of 11 brief chapters with key advice - such as causes of degradation and discard criteria - on the full range of technical equipment from karabiners to ascenders.

Download the care and maintenance guide here

Crampons and Ice Axes

The Crampons and Ice Axes booklet looks at the range of crampons available for different types of boot, and their suitability for different mountain activities. It also discusses ice axes, and the differences between axes for walking, mountaineering and technical climbing. The booklet does not cover winter climbing or walking techniques. 

BUY: the Crampons and Ice Axes booklet from the BMC shop

WATCH our Climbing gear care and maintenance playlist on BMC TV

Watch this and many more gear videos on BMC TV.

As the climbing walls, crags and mountains start to open, we wanted to say thanks to every BMC member who supported us through the Coronavirus crisis.

From weekly Facebook Lives and GB Climbing home training videos, to our access team working to re-open the crags and fight for your mountain access, we couldn’t have made it without you.

If you liked what we did, then tell your friends about us: www.thebmc.co.uk/join

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