which rope would be best for me?

Hey Bill. After 15 years climbing (longer than most, but not as long as some) I just buy whatever is fat (>9.8mm) and cheap (sub $150). The performance metrics on the rope are all but indiscernible to me. Only thing I've found that makes a real difference is the rope's feeling in hand. I get about 2 full seasons out of all my ropes, the only rope I've ever had prematurely wear was a 9.6mm Sterling, but I readily admit it wasn't the rope's fault - just got worked to death in one afternoon on a single route with a sharp flake.

I keep one skinny lightweight cord around for hard sport redpoints or long/remote backcounty climbs, but otherwise rotate through my 2 "beater" ropes for all my normal cragging (i.e. NRG, RRG, Gunks, Eldo, etc).

Ice ropes are different story....

I have a 70m BW Pulse. Seems durable enough. Not the best handling rope but good enough. And I got it for about $120 on sale. Friends of mine swear by Sterling, the 10.2mm Marathon Pro in particular. Absolute workhorse. You should also not overlook the 10mm Mammut Galaxy, absolutely the most durable rope I've ever owned. I retired it because of age and not wear. Pretty amazing but not cheap.

I'd go for whichever one you could find cheaper.

Jon H wrote: Ice ropes are different story....

Yea because I have way more confidence on ice than rock.

Thanks again guys to replying.

S. I was thinking of a Mammut 10mm 70m rope at first. The Apex treated me well and I like the handling. I might give Mammut some more thought. I'm surprised to hear about the Pulse. My Icon handles great!

I like the Mammut ropes and slings. I'm currently using the Gravity Classic 10.2/60m. as the work horse. I also have the Eternity 9.8/70m. I'm a larger fellow so I like the husky sized ropes. Both handle well, and in fact, feel better after use.

I had no kinks to work out after purchase. Both have been durable. The middle is well marked/indicated. I like the colors red and blue. I bought both on sale for less than $120. What is there not to like? I'm actually thinking about purchasing two more replacements to have when the ones I already have are retired.

You probably can't go wrong with any major manufacturer out there, so go crazy with the information given.