by Steve Knapp » Tue Mar 30, 2010 11:40 pm
Some kind of instruction is very important, your life as well as your future partners lives depends on it. Try joining the CMC (if you aren't already a member), they may still offer affordable schools. That is how I learned to lead years ago, through BMS and a couple of rock classes. Read some books like "Freedom of the Hills" and apply that knowledge outdoors. Find some knowledgeable friends that can serve as mentors, follow them on moderate routes and study how gear is placed and anchors are built. Climbing is great fun and quite a rush, but you have to always be on your A game to stay safe (and even then accidents can happen to the best climbers).
Oh yeah, acquiring a rack is not cheap. Plan on spending at least $1000 or more. Cams are the worst offenders, but you'll want to have many of those. Used gear is not a great option, you want to know how every piece on your rack has been used and maintained.
Have fun!