This is a comprehensive, full-colour manual providing a complete reference for climbers of every level and discipline. It covers all the skills, safety issues and equipment necessary for the key climbing disciplines: mountains, bouldering and climbing walls, summer climbing, winter climbing, big wall and expedition climbing.This exciting book is extensively illustrated throughout, with practical diagrams as well as inspirational and instructive photographs covering everything from the basic saftey, equipment and techniques to advanced-level mountaineering on some of the world's toughest ascents.The basic skills includes fundamental information on the necessary technical equipment, from harness, rock boots and ropes to slings, karabiners and belay devices. There is a detailed section on different types of knots with clear diagrams to exemplify each. The technical skills section gives comprehensive information on abseiling with diagrams and photographs, plus various emergency procedures