Sometimes the first bolt is the toughest—to clean, that is. After an afternoon of projecting a steep sport route, when you’re totally spent, climbing up to pull the draw off that first bolt is the last thing you want to do. But a stick clip can help. Here are some simple steps to help you clean the first draw efficiently by using a stick clip. Step 1: Find or make a stick clip with a clamp on the end. You can find instructions for making your own stick clip online, for example, at spadout.com. Step 2: Find a small rock to wedge into the clamp it hold it open. Step 3: Aim your propped-open clamp for the gate of the carabiner that’s attached to the bolt and push. Step 4 : Once you have the gate in between the clamp, start to rotate the stick clip away from the bolt. The draw will then rotate out of the bolt.
