Climbing Nuts, Rocks & Cams
Climbing cams and nuts are essential passive protection devices that climbers use to secure themselves on the rock. These pieces of gear provide crucial anchor points in cracks and fissures, offering reliable protection against falls and aiding in overall safety during ascents.
Climbing cams, or camming devices, are mechanical units with spring-loaded lobes that expand and grip the inside of a crack when placed. They come in various sizes to fit different crack widths, providing versatile and secure placements. Climbers often carry a range of cams to accommodate the variety of cracks they may encounter on a route.
Nuts, or nuts and chocks, are passive protection devices that rely on their wedge shape to jam securely into constrictions in the rock. They are lightweight, easy to place, and come in different sizes to match various crack dimensions. Nuts are a staple in a climber's rack, particularly in traditional or "trad" climbing, where climbers place their own protection as they ascend.
Both climbing cams and nuts require skill and experience to place effectively, and the ability to assess rock features to find suitable placements is crucial. The combination of cams, nuts, and other protection devices forms a comprehensive protection system that allows climbers to ascend safely while minimizing the impact of potential falls.