- In 1876 Charlet attempted, and failed, to climb the Petit Dru, a mountain in the Mont Blanc range of France. During this failed attempt, he devised the technique of the abseil (or rappel) method of roping down. Charlet finally managed to climb the mountain in 1879, after several failed attempts, where he perfected the abseil.
- In Britain, New Zealand and Australia rappelling is known as abseiling. In Israel it is called snapling, and in Hindi it's called rappling.
- Rappelling equipment includes helmets, gloves, boots, knee pads and ropes, a harness and a descender.
- Usually Kernmantle rope is used. This rope has a tough outer sheath to resist abrasion.
- The descender, also known as a rappel device, lets out rope in a steady release. It allows a person to control the speed of descent.
- Early in the 20th century, European mountain climbers devised rappelling techniques to increase the speed of their descents, according to fire rescue team Angeles Helitack. Although the equipment and methods have evolved over the years, rappelling is still widely practiced by climbers today. In addition to recreational use, rappelling is also used by cave explorers, industrial workers, firemen, rescuing injured people and by SWAT police forces.
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