UKBouldering.com

the shizzle => chuffing => Topic started by: shark on May 22, 2019, 06:59:43 pm

Title: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 22, 2019, 06:59:43 pm
What’s the opinion on putting in a dogging bolt on an awkward to work crux of an existing route?

Don’t think anyone complained about the one on Bat Route.

Asking for a friend..
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: jwi on May 22, 2019, 07:03:33 pm
Not ok, imho.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: bigironhorse on May 22, 2019, 07:11:34 pm
There may be a case for doing it on a few specific routes, but as a general rule not OK in my opinion. And to be honest I don't think I've ever tried a route where the crux was so awkward to work that this would be necessary.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Ru on May 22, 2019, 07:16:14 pm
Not on an existing route. Unless it's clearly very badly bolted.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Will Hunt on May 22, 2019, 07:29:23 pm
Come on, Shark. What route is it?
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Coops_13 on May 22, 2019, 07:36:13 pm
Come on, Shark. What route is it?
Ben's Roof?
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: reeve on May 22, 2019, 08:13:34 pm
Come on, Shark. What route is it?
Ben's Roof?

Blind date?


I think that there could be a case for it (I mean generally, not on blind date obvs) but it would be on a case by case basis and with a fairly high bar for what would constitute the right situation. Questions I would ask are:
1) are there any other options (such as clipping the bolt above and clipping yourself into the dead rope (tramlining some people call it)
2) is working that section currently so difficult as to mean that you almost need a grade in hand to be able to effectively redpoint the route
3) if this is being suggested as a solution, how have people coped before? Is the route as a whole that badly bolted?
4) Is it <i>really</i> necessary or just a bit more convenient? (obviously this is a value judgement, but included to bring this into sharper focus)

I think it would be rare for a route to fulfil these criteria. Unless it is really esoteric and badly bolted.

Oh and 5) is it possible to get past it by climbing faster?
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: joel182 on May 22, 2019, 08:21:53 pm
1) are there any other options (such as clipping the bolt above and clipping yourself into the dead rope (tramlining some people call it)

Quality, would have never thought about doing that
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: tomtom on May 22, 2019, 08:49:46 pm
Come on, Shark. What route is it?
Ben's Roof?

Blind Date? Ha beaten to it by Reeve 😃👍
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 22, 2019, 09:26:32 pm
Ok so generally against it. I’m agnostic. It’s not badly bolted for leading but a dogging bolt would be useful for working it. Nobody seemed agitated by the extra Bat Route bolt. I’m sure there are other examples of retro placed dogging bolts

It’s Moffatrocity fools
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Teaboy on May 22, 2019, 10:13:50 pm
I don't have a problem if there is a genuine case for it. There's plenty of old bolt litter around the crags that someone could offset the extra bolt by tidying up a nearby route.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 22, 2019, 10:21:11 pm
I don't have a problem if there is a genuine case for it. There's plenty of old bolt litter around the crags that someone could offset the extra bolt by tidying up a nearby route.

Like it! Planners often stipulate that if you take a tree out that you plant a replacement. Yes tidying up karma is possible but I don’t think that ethically that is sound
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Doylo on May 22, 2019, 10:39:27 pm
I put an extra bolt in Liquid Ambar on the crux. Was so hard to get past the crux section when digging up. There was an old bit of blue tat hanging from the bolt above so people could pull up it to get to next bolt. Then a sling when people have been trying it in recent years. Now there’s a tiny 12mm glue in in a decent place and no need to have old fucked tat hanging down getting in your way and blowing about. Each case different i reckon.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: 36chambers on May 22, 2019, 10:39:59 pm
Just post on facebook asking for likes if people agree with you and get on with it? ;)


In all seriousness though, if you're too embarrassed (or whatever) to name the route, then it sounds like it doesn't really need it :)
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 22, 2019, 11:10:39 pm
In all seriousness though, if you're too embarrassed (or whatever) to name the route, then it sounds like it doesn't really need it :)

Hey just asking for a friend. Surely it’s the principle that’s most important ;-)
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Kingy on May 22, 2019, 11:11:58 pm
I put in a new bolt in Hajj on the crux as the old one was over a metre to the right of the move. There was no way of working the individual moves without climbing the whole crux sequence as the next bolt above was even further right. A case of bolting being done before the intricacies of the moves are known and completely understandable on the part of the bolter. Somebody has to put the bolts in first. Could be a case for using temporary bolts initially before the best clipping spots are known etc then slam in some more permanent ones, however more time consuming this way.

The same thing happened on Something for Nothing. A friend repositioned the crux bolt to make it clipplable from the rest instead of the laughable 'solution' of using gaffa tape to hold a long draw sideways into the rock to make it clippable. Last example an extra bolt was added to Kaabah in the middle of the crux for those who want to clip something and eschew the character building runout  :lol:
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 22, 2019, 11:12:46 pm
I put an extra bolt in Liquid Ambar on the crux.

Classic Moffat route! Burn him
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 22, 2019, 11:15:13 pm
So Ted - if we over drill the hole and promise to bang it home after(  if requested) and plug is that ok?

 :popcorn:
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Kingy on May 22, 2019, 11:23:29 pm
I wouldn't over think things. If it needs doing, do it!
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 22, 2019, 11:36:44 pm
That’s the thing though - a dogging bolt never ‘needs’ doing
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: TobyD on May 22, 2019, 11:40:02 pm
So Ted - if we over drill the hole and promise to bang it home after(  if requested) and plug is that ok?

 :popcorn:

I'd largely agree with Reeve on this,  in that its justifiable but if other options exist should be avoided; if would really depend on the route: what / where is it?!
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 22, 2019, 11:47:19 pm
I'd largely agree with Reeve on this,  in that its justifiable but if other options exist should be avoided; if would really depend on the route: what / where is it?!

It’s an established sport route. It’s a dogging bolt so it isn’t necessary. Why should it matter which route it is or where - it’s the principle no?
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 22, 2019, 11:53:11 pm
I think that there could be a case for it (I mean generally, not on blind date obvs) but it would be on a case by case basis and with a fairly high bar for what would constitute the right situation. Questions I would ask are:
1) are there any other options (such as clipping the bolt above and clipping yourself into the dead rope (tramlining some people call it)
No
Quote
2) is working that section currently so difficult as to mean that you almost need a grade in hand to be able to effectively redpoint the route
Maybe
Quote
3) if this is being suggested as a solution, how have people coped before? Is the route as a whole that badly bolted?
Generally climbed by people who can climb harder. It’s not badly bolted for leading though
Quote
4) Is it <i>really</i> necessary or just a bit more convenient? (obviously this is a value judgement, but included to bring this into sharper focus)
Convenient
Quote
Oh and 5) is it possible to get past it by climbing faster?
No

Can you guess the route yet?
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: spidermonkey09 on May 23, 2019, 07:10:26 am
Seems fine to me, I like the karmic balance idea of taking out a few old ones on adjacent routes. In time your 'dogging' bolt might become the preferred clip?

Intrigued by which route it is; give us a clue? Peak or Yorks?
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: bigironhorse on May 23, 2019, 08:12:15 am
I'd largely agree with Reeve on this,  in that its justifiable but if other options exist should be avoided; if would really depend on the route: what / where is it?!

It’s an established sport route. It’s a dogging bolt so it isn’t necessary. Why should it matter which route it is or where - it’s the principle no?

I think which route is pretty important. I don't think general rules are as important as judging whether it is necessary on a case by case basis.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Kingy on May 23, 2019, 08:24:54 am
Just because the existing bolts are in doesn't mean they are in the right place IMHO. Take Consenting for example. the 3rd bolt (in place since the 80's) is in a poor position and has been the cause of broken bones due to people decking. Should we consider this in the 'right' position just because its already there?
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: spidermonkey09 on May 23, 2019, 08:39:09 am
Just because the existing bolts are in doesn't mean they are in the right place IMHO. Take Consenting for example. the 3rd bolt (in place since the 80's) is in a poor position and has been the cause of broken bones due to people decking. Should we consider this in the 'right' position just because its already there?

It isn't now since Ian Dunn fixed it! But the point stands.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Kingy on May 23, 2019, 08:40:31 am

It isn't now since Ian Dunn fixed it! But the point stands.

Sorry! I'm a bit out of the cove loop... thats a good effort of Ian.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: jwi on May 23, 2019, 08:42:44 am
Moving bolts clipped on lead is a totally different proposition than adding dogging bolts for convenience. I accept the former, as long as the clipping position doesn't get harder for short climbers, but not so much the latter
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: ferret on May 23, 2019, 08:45:25 am
Instead of coming up with some kind of general criteria would it not be be better to present your rationale to some combination of local climbers/active bolters/access advocates/climber who put up the route/people who have previously climbed it or who are currently trying it?
I took the same approach when I wanted to glue a broken hold back on a boulder project I was trying. It was already looking at being around 8A+ and the break made it at least a grade harder and more importantly quite unpleasant. Spoke to all the local developers and the most active climbers and everybody said go for it. It's no masterpiece but I occasionally see it on YouTube videos, glad I glued it.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 23, 2019, 08:47:01 am
I don’t think anybody is unhappy with extra or replacement bolts that make for safer or easier clipping and extra bolts to reduce runouts generally seem to remain ie Obsession. Don’t think there would be too many upset if there was an extra bolt at the start of Obscene Toilet and another in the top wall.

Just curious about an extra bolt purely placed for dogging that is probably not going to get clipped on lead
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 23, 2019, 08:48:39 am
Instead of coming up with some kind of general criteria would it not be be better to present your rationale to some combination of local climbers/active bolters/access advocates/climber who put up the route/people who have previously climbed it or who are currently trying it?

 :goodidea:
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: spidermonkey09 on May 23, 2019, 09:04:12 am

Just curious about an extra bolt purely placed for dogging that is probably not going to get clipped on lead

When did the Bat Route one go in? I had naively assumed it was ancient as its very rusty.

Off topic, but how famous/notorious was the Obsession runout? On a level with New Dawn, where its seen as an integral part of the route, or was it always seen as an irritant?
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 23, 2019, 09:12:55 am

Just curious about an extra bolt purely placed for dogging that is probably not going to get clipped on lead

When did the Bat Route one go in? I had naively assumed it was ancient as its very rusty.

Off topic, but how famous/notorious was the Obsession runout? On a level with New Dawn, where its seen as an integral part of the route, or was it always seen as an irritant?

Might not be stainless? Placed by Zippy.

I thought the runout on Obsession added to the character. Steve Crowe put it in for Karin IIRC. He also added a couple on the Prow/push Up and they haven’t weathered well.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: petejh on May 23, 2019, 09:42:35 am
On a side note, it pisses me off to see routes littered with rusting bolts. There's simply no justification for placing non-stainless bolts or hangers, a worse crime even than placing rusting pegs.

Shark here's an idea for you - use an 8mm petzl couer pulse as your dogging bolt. I use them for positioning while bolting new routes. They're piss to use, bomber to fall on, and come out easily when you've finished. I use the 12mm version but if you drilled a 12mm hole on a hard route it might be usable as mono.. hence the 8mm suggestion.

You'd drill an 8mm hole and whenever you go to try the route you stick in your couer pulse and remove it when you finish your session.

I doubt anyone who didn't know it was there would notice the hole.

Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 23, 2019, 09:52:22 am
Hi Pete - yes we were thinking along those lines
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: petejh on May 23, 2019, 09:55:11 am
 :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: 36chambers on May 23, 2019, 10:00:28 am
Can I do this on all the routes I'm working? :devangel:
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Johnny Brown on May 23, 2019, 10:09:42 am
Far be it for me to encourage bolting but Abracadabseil have got a bunch of lightly used 12mm Couer Pulse that were returned and we don't know what to do with. Can also source new 8mm obvs.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 23, 2019, 10:12:51 am
Far be it for me to encourage bolting but Abracadabseil have got a bunch of lightly used 12mm Couer Pulse that were returned and we don't know what to do with. Can also source new 8mm obvs.

I’d be happy to take the 12mm off your hands - presumably the whole unit, bolt and hanger?

Edit. Just checked and I see the whole bolt is removable to leave a hole What a good idea. I’ll drop you a text
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Stu Littlefair on May 23, 2019, 11:48:54 am
I think it's a really bad idea.

Peppering an existing route with new 12mm holes* because its a pain in the arse to dog a section? Just no; it seems like the same principle as not chipping a hold to make the route easier, albeit a greyer version of that dilemma. I'd prefer a new dogging bolt TBH.

In general I think this isn't a good idea, especially if the route isn't runout here and it's purely to aid pulling onto the rock. It's a totally different thing to adding bolts to neuter runouts which can be OK in some circumstances, but which is still happening too much IMO. Adding dogging bolts just opens a :worms: and it's hard to see where it would stop.

*obvs an exaggeration for the purposes of making the point.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Paul B on May 23, 2019, 01:18:07 pm
That wasn't the same sentiment offered when Directissima got an additional first bolt! IMO that changed the character considerably  ;)

A few anecdotes that probably cancel each other out:

A few years back I asked on the FB group about rebolting Dreamtime. The bolts were in poor positions and I was needing to extend one with an 8ft sling and a heavy biner that I could nudge to get it swinging, clip it and carry on. I f*cked this up more than once. Other ascentionists had taken to taping draws to the rock. On the higher section, another poorly placed bolt meant I was clipping by my feet and managed on one attempt to clip through my shoe pull on loop (panic!). I got shouted down about re-bolting the route as 'others managed'.

A year or so later, Seb bolted an alternative start and re-bolted the rest; the route now gets done a lot more and is better for it.  I guess in this instance as per LA mentioned by Doyle, the FA/bolter just got it a bit wrong.

On another Kilnsey route which doesn't get done all that often, I was having to pull up a stick at about half height as the crux section doesn't have a dogging bolt. This was a PITA (in a 1st world problems kind of way). However, when I finally took the fall it was 'exciting' but fine. If there was a bolt in place I think there'd be the temptation to hang a long sling etc. from the bolt neutering the route a bit. I'm not sure there are many UK routes that can't be overcome by a stick and a bit of ropework.

On another FB group I've seen a misguided soul bolt a ground belay to use with removal bolts whilst soloing. I'm with Stu on this one, making it OK to drill holes for these things is a  :worms:.

(PS are we talking about Rainshadow here as that's the last time I heard you thinking out loud about these things?).
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: abarro81 on May 23, 2019, 01:33:21 pm
Totally depends on the route... and the location... and what the locals think... but adding a bolt that you/your mate can use then removing it  and leaving a hole (even if filled in) sounds like a bad plan to me. Can't really comment further without knowing the route.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Doylo on May 23, 2019, 01:45:50 pm
Just in case any one thinks I’m a cunt I did rebolt the whole route and get rid of some of the rusty ones.  ;)Still a fair few that could do with removing. (Ps. I am a cunt).
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 23, 2019, 03:15:42 pm


:o  :furious: :worms:   :devangel: Revelations  :devangel:   :worms: :furious:  :o
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: SamT on May 23, 2019, 04:14:28 pm

Get it soloed!!
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: SamT on May 23, 2019, 04:17:31 pm
As a slight aside - watching the Ben/Agincourt vid recently and thought that the rusty old bolts in that were presumably left in for dogging?

I assume they are the old aid bolts.  Bit of an eyesore though.  I guess battery powered angle grinders weren't available in the 80s either.

Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Kingy on May 23, 2019, 04:32:25 pm
Revelations

Fine by me to put a new bolt in to make it easier to work. The existing first bolt is preclipped anyway (if I'm right in assuming ur talking about putting the dogging bolt at the crux?) The existing bolt predates the invention of the heel toe sequence and it cant be worked properly as the bolt is too far right meaning every attempt has go be from the ground, making it harder to get sussed. As long as the existing bolt was removed and the hole made good I don't see any issue. It seems dumb to make an already desperate route needlessly harder for people. Shouldnt we be encouraging ppl to try these things?  :shrug:
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Paul B on May 23, 2019, 04:42:26 pm
Like it! Planners often stipulate that if you take a tree out that you plant a replacement. Yes tidying up karma is possible but I don’t think that ethically that is sound

We were told to replace every one removed with two recently; is that a mandate?
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 23, 2019, 06:46:18 pm
Hi Ted

Yes the first bolt is preclipped - there is an old bolt and a newer slightly higher and left. Both are too high and too far left to work the crux easily. (BTW I’m assuming you mean the first bolt is too far left not too far right.)

Im confused regarding the relevance of what you say about the heel toe sequence as it is hard to work whatever sequence you use.

In short the first bolt is too high and too far left to be able to work the crux easily. A lower dogging bolt would be useful - I’m not suggesting that the existing first bolt is removed.

By the way a low glue in was placed by Kristian near ground level but off to the left to keep the rope out of the way, I assume.



Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Kingy on May 23, 2019, 07:30:17 pm
The heel toe is for the RF but it is at the top of the pillar on the left hence your body is pulled leftwards. V hard to start pulling on off the rope. Unless I am mistaken the bolt is too far right to pull on in this position, not too too far left but I might be wrong, it's been a while since I was last on it. Probably easier to chat at the crag but I agree with the proposal in general.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Nigel on May 23, 2019, 11:25:43 pm
Having tried this a couple of times, I agree with Ted - I can't remember if the first bolt is too far left or too far right. Or too high. What I can remember is that yes, you basically have to do the whole start to try the hardest sequence - move to the flake i.e. you can't dog it at all. It's the crux by miles and it would be nice to test positions and how to hold the holds. To be honest an extra lower bolt would be nice to have clipped for belaying as it would provide extra friction (fall is close to deck) and might direct the dead rope better so not in way.

For me - go for it.

Its only the tor anyway.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Ru on May 24, 2019, 07:03:09 am
Leave it. Everyone that's ever done it has done it with the bolt in that place and whilst it's not perfectly placed, it's not that bad either. It's only a few inches away from an ideal position and it's hardly onerous doing the one 5c move to get into the right hand slot from the floor.

I wholly disagree that we should be encouraging people to do this route. It's the best feature at the Tor and there's no need to encourage people to polish up the start even more. Plus, the route is historically sensitive - the bolts replaced like-for-like the drilled threads that protected the original ascent. Adding a convenience bolt will encourage someone to whack one in the runout at the top, because, why not - it's awkward to work and stick clip past.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Nigel on May 24, 2019, 07:28:13 am
Despite my opinion (which is my ideal world, great if it was bolted like that originally), I also can't disagree with anything ru says. Difficult subject!
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: tomtom on May 24, 2019, 07:51:25 am
(Pedant mode) wouldn’t a dogging bolt reduce the likelihood of the bottom (off the deck) parts getting polished?

Anyway - isn’t there something else you could try instead in the Peak Shark?
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 24, 2019, 08:14:29 am
I thought the runout on Obsession added to the character. Steve Crowe put it in for Karin IIRC.

Steve updated me. I was misinformed. It was put in by someone else after someone took a bad fall. Sorry Steve and Karin
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 24, 2019, 08:21:27 am
Anyway - isn’t there something else you could try instead in the Peak Shark?

Pretty crappy comment per se.

Just to be clear I was in fact scoping out reaction for a friend who was up for just pressing ahead and putting one in. I did have a go at dogging it and it was a pain. As I said I am agnostic on the subject.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: tomtom on May 24, 2019, 08:45:53 am
Anyway - isn’t there something else you could try instead in the Peak Shark?

Pretty crappy comment per se.

Just to be clear I was in fact scoping out reaction for a friend who was up for just pressing ahead and putting one in. I did have a go at dogging it and it was a pain. As I said I am agnostic on the subject.

Probably missing a 😃 at the end of that statement to make it clear I was being silly. No offence meant
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: DAVETHOMAS90 on May 24, 2019, 09:02:02 am
(Pedant mode) wouldn’t a dogging bolt reduce the likelihood of the bottom (off the deck) parts getting polished?

Anyway - isn’t there something else you could try instead in the Peak Shark?

I don't think that's "Pedant Mode" TT. It's a very good point. It may lead to more wear on the crux too - having the current bolt in a "poor" position.

I'm more inclined to think that, if a route is bolted, do it properly. I was talking about Sardine again the other night. Why on earth has there never been a lower bolt at the start, or has that route been bolted to reflect where the previous wire and pegs were?

The belay too, I think that should be a "primo" set up.

I can also fully appreciate Ru's points about the historical perspective - and why that's so important. However, I was really surprised by the initial resistance, and thought it's sad that the same is generally not the case with retro-bolting full stop.

Unfortunately these sorts of debates really seem to come down to trying to work out whether the "Yes" group is bigger than the "No" group, and whether you're going to have enough support after the event.

I think it's better to be clear about what you're doing, and your own arguments for (and against), and be willing to stick your neck out. I hate the way that the BMC is often used as some sort of spurious claim to democratic decision making on local crag ethics.

If you're willing to stick your neck out, then you're probably going to make the better decision.? Or rather, do it in a better way.

Final comments. Revelations is a majestic route, and maybe ensuring it's bolted in the best way possible would be more fitting to it's status.

On the other hand, the historical perspective is really important - but is the ethic of only bolting where the previous (drilled) placements were, really strong (used) enough to justify the messy compromise that results?
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: T_B on May 24, 2019, 09:13:36 am
I've tried Rev a few times hanging off the first bolt with a Ggrigri. Yes, it's inconvenient that the hard bit is steep and right at the bottom, but I can't see another bolt helping that much. You're either strong/good enough to pull off the slot or not. A dogging bolt will just see more people spending longer dicking about. I reckon if you're good enough to do the moves you can cope with the current bolt placement.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: DAVETHOMAS90 on May 24, 2019, 09:36:03 am
Sorry Shark.

My post could read as a slur on your own decision making, which wasn't intended!

To properly address the question, what I was trying to say is that if we review how Revelations is bolted, then the dogging bolt question may be redundant in any case.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: petejh on May 24, 2019, 11:19:39 am
I think it's a really bad idea.

Peppering an existing route with new 12mm holes* because its a pain in the arse to dog a section? Just no; it seems like the same principle as not chipping a hold to make the route easier, albeit a greyer version of that dilemma. I'd prefer a new dogging bolt TBH.

*obvs an exaggeration for the purposes of making the point.

Bit surprised to see you making such exaggerated statements like that Stu! There's a world of difference between a 12mm hole and an 8mm hole on a route. The former would be seen, and possibly used as a mono by some beast while the latter would be difficult to see if you weren't looking for it and couldn't be used as a hold, even by the pre-pubecent folk who seem to crush peak 8s every other week these days.

To be clear I'm not actually encouraging this to done I just thought it an interesting possible solution to the problem Shark was presenting. And TBH if he'd have gone out and drilled said 8mm hole, you'd all be none the wiser and perhaps wondering how the hell he (or his mate) had sussed out the crux so quickly. Like you I don't think we should be drilling 8mm holes for petzl couer pulses all over crags as a matter of standard practice either.

I disagree with the 'historical precedent' argument put forward by some though - the precedent for 80s UK bolting was for it to be done really badly, using shit equipment, often in poor positions, and run out either dangerously so or enough to make the experience just a bit unpleasant. That's no precedent worthy of respecting. Good sport routes can and often are spoilt by poor bolting. It's about the moves, and yes the character, as long as that character isn't the dangerous awkward weirdo nobody likes.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: DAVETHOMAS90 on May 24, 2019, 12:34:22 pm
Hi Pete.

I think that generalises things a bit too much here.

Ru's remarks about the historical placement was because of the position of the original drilled threads. However, there's only a vague precedent for that sort of thing, battled over on certain routes.

Perhaps more aligned with your sentiment, in this case, is that it results in a fantastic route not being bolted particularly well.

I don't think anyone should drill a small hole, 8mm or otherwise, on the premise that no one will notice - they will.

I'm certainly not against dogging bolts, but if they're in, they should be there properly in my opinion.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: petejh on May 24, 2019, 12:49:26 pm
I am talking generally, because I obviously have no skin in the peak game. I agree btw, if you want a dogging bolt then do it properly for all.
The removable bolt thing is just one of those interesting tricks, a bit like other 'tricks' I know of like resin bolts that look like 'pegs' on trad cliffs. And I disagree with you - I really don't think many people would notice (or think much of it if they did notice) an 8mm hole unless someone told you about it.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: DAVETHOMAS90 on May 24, 2019, 01:00:40 pm
I obviously have no skin in the peak game.

Who has Pete?  :P
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Ru on May 24, 2019, 04:52:01 pm
Perhaps more aligned with your sentiment, in this case, is that it results in a fantastic route not being bolted particularly well.

It's not bolted badly, it's just that your body doesn't hang directly over the crux holds meaning that you have to pull onto the rock to work out where your feet go and get the body positions. If it were a boulder problem you would have to do this anyway. From what I remember the crux slot is within reach when sat on the bolt, if slightly over to one side. If the slot was slightly easier to hold, no-one would be complaining. Putting dogging bolts in where the crux moves are between bolts, or if the bolt is a few feet off to the side is one thing, but shifting bolts 6 inches here and there is a bit too thin end of the wedge ish. I don't really get sentimental about drilling bits of rock, but I do get uncomfortable with the concept of finding a bolt is in a slightly less than ideal position and drilling a convenience hole a few inches away, especially on something like Revelations.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 24, 2019, 05:41:14 pm
Leave it. Everyone that's ever done it has done it with the bolt in that place
They haven't had a choice
Quote
whilst it's not perfectly placed, it's not that bad either.
Its rubbish. Too high and too far left - see photo below
Quote
it's hardly onerous doing the one 5c move to get into the right hand slot from the floor.
5c! :lol: more like hard 6a or 6b
Quote
the bolts replaced like-for-like the drilled threads that protected the original ascent.
The drilled threads may have been fine for the ground up yo-yo style which was the way it was originally climbed but is a pain in the arse for working then redpointing



(https://i.imgur.com/xkcVIy0.jpg)

The bolt shown clipped is the first bolt on the route which is pre-clipped.

The route starts at the shallow corner and you get your left hand in the tight horizontal slot at its top with your left hand smear up on your right foot to reach up and right over the bulge to the infamous slot pocket you then get a left toe on the rib of the groove and get a right heel/toe where the first slot is to crank up to a high flake.

At any point you come off you swing off and out nearly touching the ground. The first bolt is obviously too high and too far left to work properly in finding the best position for the heel/toe for example

Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Stu Littlefair on May 24, 2019, 06:03:24 pm
Now the specific route is revealed, some thoughts:

1) Pete. I was specifically referring to 12mm holes in my reply. I’d be more relaxed about an 8mm hole but still don’t like it as an idea. I’ve used plenty of bolt holes as holds/intermediates and one in the middle of revelations crux would change it massively. If a dogging bolt goes in, it has to be permanent.

2) Unlike ru, I’m not too concerned by the historical argument in this particular case. Don’t know why, it just doesn’t bother me. Maybe because the crux has evolved so much over the years?

3) I find myself agreeing with TB, I can’t see how a dogging bolt actually helps in this specific instance. To meaningfully work one of the moves on Rev, you’ve got to

  a) have RH in the slot and LH in the starting hold (in which case you might as well pull off the ground)
  b) pull on from slot and first intermediate with LH, which you can do off the bolt anyway.

A dogging bolt would allow you to do practice the heel hook move, but only from a body position you wouldn’t get into anyway, so it would be a waste of time, IMO
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Stu Littlefair on May 24, 2019, 06:05:47 pm
In fact, I believe there’s already an old bolt hole down and left from the slot: if you want a “dogging bolt” just put a slider in that or something...
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: DAVETHOMAS90 on May 24, 2019, 06:16:56 pm
Agree with a lot of those points Stu.

It does sound as though things could be improved quite a bit - mostly in my finger strength in that pocket tbh  ;)

This is a route which should be bolted as well as possible, in my opinion.

Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 24, 2019, 09:07:26 pm
In fact, I believe there’s already an old bolt hole down and left from the slot: if you want a “dogging bolt” just put a slider in that or something...

You mean the useful intermediate hold..
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Nigel on May 24, 2019, 09:35:35 pm
In fact, I believe there’s already an old bolt hole down and left from the slot: if you want a “dogging bolt” just put a slider in that or something...

You mean the useful intermediate hold..

I thought that! I use it for lh when putting heel in. Might be a better hold with a slider in....cheers stu!
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: petejh on May 24, 2019, 10:44:21 pm
Stu, go down to B&Q and examine an 8mm drill bit - you'll find you won't get your thinnest digit in an 8mm hole. Then come back and admit that even you aren't capable of using an 8mm drill hole as an intermediate  :lol:

Saying an 8mm drill hole in the middle of the crux of Revelations anyclimbanywhere would 'change it massively'' is pure silliness. I don't think temporary 8mm bolts are the way to go btw.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Stu Littlefair on May 25, 2019, 10:18:37 am
Sometimes, Pete, you really seem to be trying to make an argument out of nowhere.

For the second time, and in bold

i was specifically referring to 12mm bolt holes.

The fact that there is already an empty bolt hole here which is being described as “the useful intermediate” should be clear enough.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: petejh on May 25, 2019, 10:27:50 am
Fair enough for 12mm. But why even bother saying you can use 12mm holes as intermediates if what was being discussed is 8mm holes.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Stu Littlefair on May 25, 2019, 01:50:13 pm
Just go and read Shark’s post that immediately precedes mine and you’ll have your answer
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 25, 2019, 04:02:09 pm
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47928639877_17c89c1e53.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2g2hNPX)rev ladder (https://flic.kr/p/2g2hNPX) by TheUKBShark (https://www.flickr.com/photos/64358048@N03/), on Flickr

For those "not good enough to do the moves" here is one solution for working it.

Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: petejh on May 25, 2019, 04:26:38 pm
That’s bonkers! Have you ever thought about putting in a dogging bolt instead?...




Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 25, 2019, 04:33:09 pm
That’s bonkers! Have you ever thought about putting in a dogging bolt instead?...

 :slap: why didn’t I think of that?!
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: tomtom on May 25, 2019, 05:07:58 pm
Via ferrata at the Tor!

Genius.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: teestub on May 25, 2019, 05:23:15 pm
Isn’t the Revelations crux at the bottom Font 7C or something? If someone can’t do an English 6A/+ move to get into this, then surely they don’t have a huge amount of chance of doing the crux and should try something easier?
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 25, 2019, 06:04:47 pm
 :wall:
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: teestub on May 25, 2019, 06:55:25 pm
Is that the emoji for trying routes that are too hard?  ;D
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Kingy on May 25, 2019, 10:38:32 pm
 :lol: Full marks for effort! Where there's a will, there's a way  ;) ::)
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: kc on May 26, 2019, 01:16:17 am
I thought you were complaining about my bolt placements for a minute there but I recall the first bolt is from a different time than the ones I replaced. It is a fat gray triangular headed petzl? resin bolt the same as the first on Sardine and Rubicon possibly placed by Squawk. Anyone suggesting the bolt was badly placed needs to remember the crux used to be easier. I rebolted the remainder of the route 16 years ago and climbed it 3years before that. No doggin bolt would have helped with the flying Polish sequence.
Even back then when people climbed Mecca without cheating that would get more ascents than Revelation. A tough 8a+. Too hard for me now.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 26, 2019, 08:17:16 am
It is a fat gray triangular headed petzl? resin bolt

Yes that’s the one and there is an older rusting ring bolt next to it.
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Rob F on May 26, 2019, 04:39:46 pm
Never mind deviating to the triple 19, keep your aim on the triple 20...
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: shark on May 26, 2019, 05:34:26 pm
Never mind deviating to the triple 19, keep your aim on the triple 20...

It’s going down in the autumn
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: Rob F on May 27, 2019, 10:03:42 am
Well hurry along, it's soon going to be a new decade...
Title: Re: Dogging bolt ethics
Post by: tomtom on May 27, 2019, 05:27:41 pm
Well hurry along, it's soon going to be a new decade...

How many decades now?
SimplePortal 2.3.7 © 2008-2024, SimplePortal