Ozymandias wrote:So, there's the conundrum. Can you build a complete vertical system via B&M (brick and mortar) stores alone? (Just for the basic "frog" system).
So... how did you make out with putting together your system?
This thread should probably be in the On Rope section with all the other good advice, but no harm done.
Since I'm here, I'll throw out a few comments...
caverdoc wrote:Make your foot loop out of static rope/cord, about 8mm.
Nothing wrong with that, but you could do what I do and use 5.5mm Spectra. It's lighter, less bulky, and super-static. Don't use that for cowstails, though! You also have the options of single strand/single large footloop, single strand/two footloops, or two strands/two footloops. I currently use the middle one.
bill fish wrote:Dont buy fancy links or rings either.....simple cheap steel ones are just as good..just a bit heavier/rusty....but actually probably safer than fancy alloy ones...
True, steel ones can be "just as good" - assuming you mean rated maillon rapides (screw links) and not the cheap hardware store versions. When used correctly, the rated steel versions are no safer for our caving purposes than the rated alloy ones. The alloy is more expensive, but is preferred by many (including me) for a harness D maillon because it's much lighter and still rated around 20kN.
bill fish wrote:get "cheap" biners...but they MUST still be LOCKING biners...clean em good after every trip....work the locking part to get the grit out....and mabye a very light oiling to the threads after a wash and dry...
Non-locking carabiners are fine for using on your cowstails, but locking carabiners should be the standard for most everything else (like rigging). Although this cowstail carabiner issue is sometimes hotly debated in the US, the use of non-locking versions is common caving practice around the world. If you make an
informed choice to use locking ones instead, then more power to you - to each their own. And yes, clean/inspect all your gear well after each trip. Your life depends on your gear! If you find it necessary to lubricate your carabiners, I suggest using a light coating of silicon rather than oil. Recent testing seems to show many oils don't weaken nylon rope as was previously thought, but I still prefer not to use any oil if I can avoid it.
IMO, GGG, On Rope 1, Bob and Bob, Howie's and others all have good stuff. When it comes to the number 1 "fit" item (the sit harness), I doubt any local "brick and mortar" outdoor stores carry a harness suitable for frogging. In fact, their staff have probably never even seen one! I'm not sure about all the vendors I mentioned, but if you order from
GGG they encourage you to try out your harness in a clean environment (hanging from a tree) for a while. If it isn't comfortable and is still in perfect condition, you can send it back.
Also be aware - there are 2 main designs of Frog harness (plus other variations). The more common one consists of a waist/hip strap with a leg loop on each end. The other consists of a waist/hip strap and a butt strap, with smaller straps connecting the two at the front between your legs. It may sound painful, but I know plenty of females and some males who prefer the latter design because it gives them greater comfort. I'm not sure about the other vendors, but GGG make both types and they sell for $50.
Safe caving!