9 5. MOUNTAINEERING EQUIPMENT-Ranger Handbook

Mountaineering equipment refers to all the parts and pieces that allow the trained Ranger to accomplish many tasks in the mountains. The importance of this gear to the Mountaineer is no less than that of the rifle to the  
infantryman.

a. Ropes and Cords. Ropes and cords are the most important pieces of mountaineering equipment. They secure climbers and equipment on steep ascents and descents. They are also used to install rope and hauling equipment. From WWII until the 1980’s, the US military mostly used 7/16-inch nylon laid rope, often referred to as green line for all mountaineering
operations. Since the introduction of kernmantle ropes, ropes designed for more specific purposes are replacing the old all–purpose green line.

Kernmantle ropes are constructed similar to parachute cord. It consists of a smooth sheath, surrounding a braided or woven core. Laid ropes are still in use today however, should never be used in situations where rope failure could result in injury or loss of equipment. There are two classifications of
kernmantle ropes; static and dynamic.

(1) Dynamic Ropes. Ropes used for climbing are classified as dynamic ropes. These rope stretch or elongate 8 to 12 percent once subjected to weight or impact. This stretching is critical in reducing the impact force on the climber, anchors, and/or belayer during a fall by softening the catch. 11mm X 150m is generally considered the standard for military use however more specialized ropes in different length and diameters
are available.

(2) Static Ropes. Static ropes are used in situations where rope stretch is undesired, and when the rope is subjected to heavy static weight. Static ropes should never be used while climbing, since even a fall of a few feet could generate enough impact force to injure climber and belayer, and/or
cause anchor failure. Static ropes are usually used when constructing rope bridges, fixed rope installations, vertical haul lines, and so on.

(3) Sling Ropes and Cordelettes. A short section of static rope or static cord is called a “sling rope” or “cordelette.” These are critical pieces of 165 personal equipment in mountaineering operations. Diameter usually ranges from 7mm to 8mm, and up to 21 feet long. 8mm X 15 feet is the
minimum Ranger standard.

(4) Care of Rope. Rope that is used daily should be used no longer than one year. Occasionally used rope can be used generally up to five years if properly cared for.
• Inspect ropes thoroughly before, during and after use for cuts, frays, abrasions, mildew, and soft or worn spots.
• Never step on a rope or drag it on the ground unnecessarily.
• Avoid running rope over sharp or rough edges (pad if necessary).
• Keep ropes away from oil, acids and other corrosive substances.
• Avoid running ropes across one another under tension (nylon to nylon contact will damage ropes).
• Do not leave ropes knotted or under tension longer than necessary.
• Clean in cool water, loosely coil and hang to dry out of direct sunlight. Ultraviolet light rays harm synthetic fibers. When wet, hang rope to drip dry on a rounded wooden peg, at room temperature (do not apply heat).

(5) Webbing and Slings. Loops of tubular webbing or cord, called slings or runners, are the simplest pieces of equipment and some of the most useful. The uses for these simple pieces are endless, and they are a critical link between the climber, the rope, carabiners, and anchors.

Runners are predominately made from either 9/16 inch or 1 inch tubular webbing and are either tied or sewn by a manufacturer.