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We'll See You Out There
A short lifestyle piece about Black Diamond and the people who love the brand.
Built For The Send
Black Diamond: Climbing, Running, & Hiking Shoes & Apparel for Athletes & AdventurersBuilt by passionate skiers and climbers, Black Diamond constantly pushes to make the best gear possible for their worldwide family of like-minded individuals. Black Diamond draws its roots from the late 1950s when climber Yvon Chouinard began selling hand-forged climbing equipment from the back of his car in Yosemite Valley. Made from a backyard anvil and hammer, Chouinards equipment gained an early reputation for quality and great design. From these humble beginnings grew Black Diamond, a company which shares the passion and dedication of its founder.
Today Black Diamond sets the standards for gear design, producing some of the best skiing and climbing equipment available anywhere. Their incredible success is easily attributed to their amazing team of people, who not only avidly use their equipment, but live for climbing and skiing. This company of users and dreamers are constantly pushing to create meaningful innovations and strides in safety.
Our own group of climbers and skiers at OutlandUSA.com place our trust and confidence in every piece of Black Diamond gear, knowing that they adhere to the highest quality standards. Black Diamond gear is designed to keep you safe and comfortable, even in a pinch. Make sure to read our FAQ below to learn more.
Questions & Tips
- Q: Is it okay to use carabiners that have been dropped?
Unfortunately, the only way to know if dropped carabiners are fit for use is to test them to their breaking point. This doesnt do you much good, now does it? It's best to inspect dropped gear for dings and significant trauma. If only light scratching is visible and gate action is still good, there is a good chance it is fit for usage. Remember, only you know what your gear has been through and if there is any doubt, it's best to retire the gear rather than take a risk.
- Q: How do I sharpen my ice picks?
Get yourself a round 1/8 inch chainsaw file and a good ski-tuning file. Have a good pick on hand to use as a reference. Don't use an electric power grinder, as they can overheat the pick and ruin the temper.
File the pick end first, trying to restore the original bevel angle, while not making a half moon shape out of the tip. Make sure you don't make the tip angle too steep as it will be very fragile; if it isn't steep enough, your placements won't be as secure. File the flat hook on the bottom, stroking outward from you.
Repair damaged teeth using the chainsaw file. Use the flat side of the chainsaw file to return the original bevel of about 45 degrees, but not on the first tooth. Go slow, and use the reference pick, as filing off too much is worse than filing too little. The pick will need to be retired when you start filing past the first 3/8 inch tooth.
- Q: How do I trim my skins?
Click for downloadable instructions.
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