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General Climbing Discussion

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Lead belay advice 1-Jun-2009 At 12:50:37 PM Li

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My climbing partner and I have just started lead climbing on low grade climbs. Our climbing ability is similar....probably around grade 14 (not leading). I realise that as we go down this path and push ourselves that a lead fall is inevitable. I have seconded other people before, climbing at higher grades but have never really had to stop a big fall. There is a weight difference between us and when we've top-roped climbs I have felt the weight when I've lowered him down - Mark, if you're reading this don't take it the wrong way ;-) And that's without a sudden impact on the rope. Does anyone have any tips/advice on what to expect, how to handle it etc. I've read plenty of books but would like to know from other's experience and maybe someone has some handy advice. My concerns are - will I be able to stop the fall effectively.....will the rope run through my hands....rope burn eek! Should I anchor myself or is that not a good thing to do? I don't really know what to expect and so it is a little daunting. And I want my partner to feel secure and safe in knowing that his life is in my hands!