LONGware Channel Piton
We have two of these LONGware channel style pitons in our collection. This example appears to be in great condition with no rust and only light hammer marks present.
Vertical Archaeology Blog
Early Sierra Club Rock Climbing Section Guidelines
This interesting piece of history is from Dr. Robert Underhill’s private library. Dr. Underhill was contacted by the Francis Farquhar of the Sierra Club in the early 1930’s to train members in techniques he learned while climbing...
The Wall of Early Morning Light – November 1970
In celebration of the 46th anniversary of Warren Harding and Dean Caldwell’s ascent of the Wall of Early Morning Light on El Capitan, we share this interesting press photo from summit day. I have...
1987 Chouinard Hammer
Chouinard produced this design in 1987. It featured a heavy hammer head with no notch on the underside of the striking surface and a three bolt system for attaching a long curved alpine pick...
Other Collections: Mountain Chalet (Colorado Springs, Colorado)
Mountain Chalet has been at the center of the Colorado Springs climbing community since 1968. I had the pleasure of working there from about 1995 until I left to pursue guiding opportunities in other...
Forrest Mountaineering Pin Bin Development
Bill Forrest started developing the Pin Bin in the late 1960’s. By 1968 he had the basics worked out and applied to patent the concept. As with many pieces of equipment, the patent version...
From the Pages of History: Pitons from the 1960 Gerry Equipment Catalog
Second in our series of early catalog recreations, these are the items offered by Gerry in 1960. Notice the interesting shape of the top two pitons. Both the vertical style and the horizontal have...
From the Pages of History: Complete Set of Swiss Pitons from the 1965 REI Catalog
This entry in our archives has its origins in a conversation with climber and photographer Ed Webster. I opined that I could probably recreate most, if not all, of the equipment selection used on many notable ascents. We...