Our bolts advice guides come in two parts. Part one is aimed at the climber, in particular those who have learnt to climb indoors and are making the transition outside. It covers the need to know information to help assess the safety of an outdoor sport climb. Part two is newly published and is a guide to current good practice for choosing and installing bolts, covering all of the important issues which must be addressed in order to do this competently and with the correct equipment.

Bolts - a climbers' guide

Climbing outside is very different to the controlled and managed indoor environment. This guide covers what you need to know about the bolts and belays you may encounter when sport climbing outside. It includes tips on assessing problems and what to be aware of.

Reading this guide will help you to evaluate and manage any risks for yourself, and allow you to experience the wonderful world of climbing outside more safely.

Download the bolts guide here

Bolts - an installers' guide

Placing bolts which you know will be used by other climbers is a serious responsibility. This guide includes the latest advice and guidance on the correct equipment to use and how to install it competently. Newly published in 2021 with the latest good practice advice.

Download the installers guide here

WATCH: how to check an expansion bolt on BMC TV

WATCH: how to check a glue-in bolt on BMC TV

WATCH: how to check and preserve a lower off on BMC TV

As Europe is unlocked, BMC travel insurance is loaded with the essential cover that you need for adventure.  

From 10 July, many European destinations are opening up to UK travellers. This means that you can still have your summer adventure – from sport climbing in Spain to trekking in the Alps.

BMC travel insurance comes in five policies: Travel, Trek, Rock, Alpine and Ski and High Altitude.

All of our policies include the following Coronavirus cover:

• 24-hour emergency assistance helpline
• £10 million emergency medical cover
• £100,000 Search, rescue and recovery cover

Please be aware that there is no cover for cancellation, curtailment, delays or journey disruption in any way caused by or resulting from coronavirus / Covid-19. Read more about the Covid-travel FAQs here

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