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Multi-Pitch Communication

Original Post
Nick Metzger · · Chattanooga, TN · Joined Aug 2014 · Points: 589

So, I'm curious what you guys think is the best form of communication on a multi-pitch route?

Only have about 6 MP routes under my belt, so my partners and I have been trying out something different almost every time. Obviously I've done the screaming on the mountain technique (not a fan) and also a tug of the rope communication (did enjoy). I've considered buying a pair of small walkie-talkies as well.

Overall just trying to avoid screaming "On Belay!, Indirect!, etc.."

Any suggestions would be helpful.

FrankPS · · Atascadero, CA · Joined Nov 2009 · Points: 276

Nick,

There have been numerous threads about "walkie talkies" and "rope tugs" and "communication." Use the search feature on MP to find them.

Marc801 C · · Sandy, Utah · Joined Feb 2014 · Points: 65
Nick Metzger wrote:So, I'm curious what you guys think is the best form of communication on a multi-pitch route? Only have about 6 MP routes under my belt, so my partners and I have been trying out something different almost every time. Obviously I've done the screaming on the mountain technique (not a fan) and also a tug of the rope communication (did enjoy). I've considered buying a pair of small walkie-talkies as well. Overall just trying to avoid screaming "On Belay!, Indirect!, etc.." Any suggestions would be helpful.
The search box can be a wonderful thing.....

mountainproject.com/v/commu…

mountainproject.com/v/walki…

mountainproject.com/v/climb…

mountainproject.com/v/walki…

mountainproject.com/v/walki…

mountainproject.com/v/multi…
Nick Metzger · · Chattanooga, TN · Joined Aug 2014 · Points: 589
FrankPS wrote:Nick, There have been numerous threads about "walkie talkies" and "rope tugs" and "communication." Use the search feature on MP to find them.
Marc801 wrote: The search box can be a wonderful thing..... mountainproject.com/v/commu… mountainproject.com/v/walki… mountainproject.com/v/climb… mountainproject.com/v/walki… mountainproject.com/v/walki… mountainproject.com/v/multi…
Thank you both
StonEmber · · Raleigh, NC · Joined Mar 2013 · Points: 35

I've thought of buying two high pitch whistles...

James Hicks · · Fruita, CO · Joined May 2012 · Points: 131
StonEmber wrote:I've thought of buying two high pitch whistles...
Please don't do that...
StonEmber · · Raleigh, NC · Joined Mar 2013 · Points: 35

I will do whatever I please, James Hicks.

I will also blow cigarette smoke in your face, after deafening you with my whistle.

Then I will sick my leashless skits cragdog on you.

Then ill blast some iron maiden.

Thanks for understanding, James

James Hicks · · Fruita, CO · Joined May 2012 · Points: 131
StonEmber wrote:I will do whatever I please, James Hicks. I will also blow cigarette smoke in your face, after deafening you with my whistle. Then I will sick my leashless skits cragdog on you. Then ill blast some iron maiden. Thanks for understanding, James
Over react much? I even asked nicely...You sound like a wonderful person to hang out with. TBH I only said that because most people tend to associate whistles when out climbing or in the mountains with someone in need of help. So go ahead and blow your damn whistle, but rest assured someone will likely shove it up your ass at some point.
FrankPS · · Atascadero, CA · Joined Nov 2009 · Points: 276
StonEmber wrote:I will do whatever I please, James Hicks. I will also blow cigarette smoke in your face, after deafening you with my whistle. Then I will sick my leashless skits cragdog on you. Then ill blast some iron maiden. Thanks for understanding, James
I thought this was kind of funny. Strange how people can interpret it entirely differently.

StonEmber is still going after Owen David by proxy!
Marc801 C · · Sandy, Utah · Joined Feb 2014 · Points: 65
James Hicks wrote: Over react much? I even asked nicely...You sound like a wonderful person to hang out with. TBH I only said that because most people tend to associate whistles when out climbing or in the mountains with someone in need of help. So go ahead and blow your damn whistle, but rest assured someone will likely shove it up your ass at some point.
Stop.
He's riffing on a number of recent threads.
Take a look at the "cigarettes and courtesy" thread for starters....
James Hicks · · Fruita, CO · Joined May 2012 · Points: 131
FrankPS wrote: I thought this was kind of funny. Strange how people can interpret it entirely differently. StonEmber is still going after Owen David by proxy!
I didn't even have an issue with all the other crap he brought up. I mean, I like Iron Maiden, but would prefer something heavier. Maybe some Behemoth? If I got to listen to death and black metal all day when climbing I would call that a good day most likely. And I love dogs, think I will name my next dog Necrobutcher and let him run around on top of everyone's ropes letting out black metal inspired growls at all who pass by.
James Hicks · · Fruita, CO · Joined May 2012 · Points: 131
Marc801 wrote: Stop. He's riffing on a number of recent threads. Take a look at the "cigarettes and courtesy" thread for starters....
Oh, I am sorry I didn't go peruse all other threads so as to establish context to some dudes comment on an unrelated thread. Totally my bad.
Marc801 C · · Sandy, Utah · Joined Feb 2014 · Points: 65
James Hicks wrote: Oh, I am sorry I didn't go peruse all other threads so as to establish context to some dudes comment on an unrelated thread. Totally my bad.
Of course it's your fault. On MP it's always your fault.
;-)
James Hicks · · Fruita, CO · Joined May 2012 · Points: 131
Marc801 wrote: Of course it's your fault. On MP it's always your fault. ;-)
You think I would have learned that years ago.
Bill M · · Fort Collins, CO · Joined Jun 2010 · Points: 317

I'm a fan of rope tugs.

Macks Whineturd · · Squaw · Joined May 2016 · Points: 0

What's the problem with a little rope tug between friends?

john strand · · southern colo · Joined May 2008 · Points: 1,640

I'm a fan of rope tugs.</quote

talk about it before hand,,then there should be no need for yelling or commands or any of that bull

When I start taking in the rope, it's ok for you to climb. Raps...a simple "OFF" should suffice

Owen Witesman · · Springville, UT · Joined Feb 2014 · Points: 111

If it's trad, climb shorter pitches. Bad communication takes more time than building a quick anchor.

Nick Sweeney · · Spokane, WA · Joined Jun 2013 · Points: 969

When the rope runs out, start climbing! Eventually you will arrive at an anchor with your partner, or fall to your death in a horrific simulclimbing accident.

Magpie79 · · Unknown Hometown · Joined Nov 2011 · Points: 0
StonEmber wrote:I've thought of buying two high pitch whistles...
All the crag dogs will go ballistic. One might pee on your rope. D'Oh!
Marc801 C · · Sandy, Utah · Joined Feb 2014 · Points: 65
Nick Metzger wrote:Overall just trying to avoid screaming "On Belay!, Indirect!...
BTW, it's "in, direct".
"Indirect" has a totally different meaning.
:-)
Guideline #1: Don't be a jerk.

Trad Climbing
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