Climbing Rope Information
Climbing rope is very strong and will hold you up well. There are very few deaths from broken ropes. However, there are things to consider when choosing a rope.
Some climbing ropes can handle more falls than others. You should know how many falls your rope can take and keep a log of the use. Most climbing ropes are dynamic. They stretch on impact and that will weaken the fibers. The rope still looks perfect and yet it is not as strong as it once was. A lot of quality climbing ropes can handle 7-10 falls.
Some climbing ropes can handle a sharp edge better. The rope company Edelweiss was the first to invent the outer braided sheath to protect against sharp edges. Nowadays, Edelweiss claims to have the strongest rope available when it comes to sharp edges. Sharp edges are of some concern. People climb over rock ledges of sandstone and limestone and granite and the edges can be quite sharp. When you put a persons weight on that edge, with your life on the line, it becomes scary to have a rope that might get severed. Still, you should know that there aren't a lot of deaths from severed ropes. Most climbing accidents are from user error and not from equipment failure.
There are various thicknesses in climbing ropes. You should determine how much weight you can comfortably carry. Long mountaineering expeditions may want a lighter rope than someone that drives up to the mountain and walks 10 feet.
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