Return of the Anti-slab

Took the kids here to show them a new type of rock to play on, which they really enjoyed. Some pics... All of us want to go back after we do more steep training :-)

New Zoned

Tom conjuring his inner gecko with no holds in sight

Tom and I ventured out this weekend to an area that we had been checking out at the top of the pass via aerial maps and a couple recon walk-throughs.  The area has a ton of rock with a smattering of pretty nice blocks some with unusual features for the Batholith.  One very difficult mantle project in particular - on stellar stone is a reason to go back.  BTW what has happened to mantle problems?  They seem to have slipped out of vogue- mantle problems used to be a mandatory element to every circuit...

Another view of the mantle

L8ers,

Patrick

How to make: An Extendable Bouldering Brush

After playing around with brushes for years I think that I have finally found something that is not only way easy to build it is also durable and relatively cheap.  Of course it is not as cheap as tape a toothbrush and a stick but at sub $30 a reasonable investment.

Whatcha Need:
Extendable Pole - I have found the Shur-Line Poles that use a button mechanism that allows them to extend are the best.  The twist lock poles are pretty unreliable and are not very durable.  That is unless you buy the professional painters style but those may run you over $100.  Way too much for a dirtbag budget.

(2) Hose Clamps - way better than tape and bomber

Brush - This is the most important piece to this simple puzzle - but my young Padawan make sure you check some things before you go a scrubbin.  I have found some sweet double headed brushes one with nylon bristkes on one side and wire on the other at the local hardware store.  In the batholith we have some very coarse and gritty rock that can also be coated with hoards of lichens so it has become custom to use a wire brush when doing the initial cleaning if need be.  But wire brushes are certainly not good or even acceptable for all types of rock.  They work great on an initial cleaning on harder rocks like granite and gneiss.  They destroy softer rock like sandstone and limestone.  If you are in an established area make sure you check with the locals before you clean with a wire brush many they may not even be considered ethical.

Whatcha Do:
1.  Extend the pole so that you can nestle the full length of the brush's handle.

2.  Slip the hose clamps around the handle of the brush and tighten them down.  Not too tight or you will crush your brush.

3.  Check how it extends and collapses.

4.  Brush - brush - brush.

These are obviously suggestions but since this brush is super durable, ultra compressible and won't break the bank, I thought I would share it with all of you.  Of course a big thanks to Clay for figuring this setup out.

L8ers,
Patrick