Dan Morley's Climb Gear & Expert Recommendations
Rock Climbing Guide
Gambrills, MDBe kind to yourself and others!
My favorite activities as an outdoorsperson are rock climbing, ice climbing, skiing, paddling, and trail running--with my passions being trad climbing and leading ice. Working as an AMGA Single Pitch Instructor allows me to share my skills and experience with folks new to climbing and those looking to move to the next level. If you've ever climbed with me or taken one of my courses, you know I love talking about gear and love helping people find the right gear for their future endeavors!
Discipline: Climb
Specialty: Rock
Traditional rock climbing in Colorado, Wyoming, California, New Hampshire, Maine, New York, West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland. Many seasons climbing ice in Ouray, CO and in locations in the Northeast, including the White Mountains in NH & the Adirondacks and the Catskill Mountains in NY.
Expert Gear Picks from Dan Morley
Expert climb gear recommendations from Dan Morley, Rock Climbing Guide, based in Gambrills, MD.
Dan Morley's Top Rope Anchor Gear
Your first gear list to get started
Dan Morley recommends the Black Diamond RockLock Screwgate Carabiner — Solid HMS carabiner for your TR anchor master point (you'll need two). I like the good ol' screw gate version but Twistlocks (auto-lockers) are popular as well.
Dan Morley recommends the PMI PMI E-Z Bend Sport 11 mm Non-Dry Static Rope White 11 Mm — This is a beefy static rope with a substantial sheath for maximum abrasion resistance and durability. Available in pre-cut 150' length or sold by the foot. I recommend 100' minimum for rigging anchors.
Dan Morley recommends the Black Diamond HotForge Screwgate Carabiner — I love these basic-style carabiners for general use. I recommend having a minimum of two for your TR anchor-building needs. You'll need more as your systems and terrain expand; also available in a 3-pack.
Dan Morley recommends the Sterling 6.8 mm HollowBlock2 Loop - 13.5 in. — To make a klemheist hitch to the static rope for your personal fall protection while working at the edge. This device can also be used for ascending, descending, and rescue systems.
Dan Morley recommends the Mammut Dyneema Contact Sling - 8mm — A 120cm version of this sling works great as a personal tether when building a top rope anchor. Pair it with Hollowblock Loop and a couple carabiners. Also can be used a part of a kit to ascend a rope.
