Stamps: July '97
Abseiling - Rappelling
Issue: July 1997
Artist: A. Berg
Size: 20mm x 25.7mm
Plate #: 311
Sheet of 30 stamps
Tabs: 10
Printers: Government Printers
Printing Method: Photogravure
 
bseiling is a technique for descending from high objects involving the use of ropes. It is an integral part of Alpine climbing, and serves the following purposes:

  • to descend from a mountain or a cliff at the end of a climb
  • to descend to the foot of a cliff in order to begin a climb
  • to hike down gorges

In Israel, abseiling has developed as an additional way to descend river-gorges on hiking trips, helping hikers to pass, for instance, dry waterfall obstacles that would otherwise be insurmountable.

The abseiler should be well-versed in all abseiling techniques including:

  • knots
  • abseiling safety measures
  • the manner of the descent
The abseiler is always strapped into a harness, connected to the harness by a carabiner.

Abseiling equipment must meet strict international safety standards. Basic equipment includes a rope manufactured from composite nylon materials and plaited in a manner that ensures strength and durability. The carabiners and friction descenders are made of particularly strong lightweight aluminium materials.

Abseiling has opened new horizons to the hiker, offering opportunities for hikes in heretofore inaccessible locations.

Alon Eisenberg
Chairman, the Israel Alpine Club