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Rutschblock Test
Use the G3 Rutschblock Cord as an aid for emergency travel in adverse conditions. Ensure one end of cord is attached to the clip inside the storage bag, then fill the bag with snow. With a firm grip on the loose cord handle, throw the bag toward the desired direction of travel. The red cable will assist by highlighting slope changes within ~6m (19ft).
RUTSCHBLOCK TEST
The Rutschblock (or 'glide-block') test is useful for identifying potentially weak layers throughout the snow pack, which are easily triggered by skier weight. The Rutschblock site should be safe, representative of the avalanche terrain and undisturbed. Place two probes into the snow 2.0m (6.5ft) apart and angle them into the slope (to facilitate cutting). Measure ~1.5m (5ft) down-slope of the probes. Dig out the front of the block below any concerning layers (identified in your snow profile). Loop the G3 Rutschblock Cord behind the probes and have one person grasp each handle, hold the handles 2.0m (6.5ft) apart and saw back and forth until the cord is below any concerning layers. To conduct the test, approach the block from above, step onto the block and apply force as described. Record required force to produce failure.
NOTE: The cord may mark some surfaces. Be cautious with softer composite poles.
RUTSCHBLOCK TEST RESULT RATINGS:
Based on a slope greater than or equal to 30 degrees
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| R1 |
slides during digging or cutting |
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| R2 |
slides during approach or step onto upper part of block (step within ~35cm (1ft) of upper wall) |
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| R3 |
slides during knee bend (do not lift heels, push down) |
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| R4 |
slides during first jump (same spot as before) |
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| R5 |
slides during second jump (same spot as before) |
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| R6 |
for hard deep slabs remove skis and jump on the same spot. (for thin or soft slabs keep skis on, step to middle of block, do one knee bend, then jump up to three times) |
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| R7 |
no definitive failure on a defined plane |
Text and diagrams modified after "Advanced Avalanche Safety Course Manual."
Copyright © 1998 Canadian Avalanche Association.
WARNING: This is not a guideline for precisely how, when or where theses slop stability tests are to be employed or how the results are to be interpreted. To improve your decision making capabilities, seek professional training and carefully monitor your local weather / avalanche bulletins before travelling into the backcountry.
For a full listing of avalanche resources, weather and avalanche conditions in North America, go to Backcountry Resources.
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