UKC

Stéphane Pennequin has meticulously curated a museum of almost every type of nut, hex, wedge, plug and camming device in the world in his own home. He probably has enough kit to equip the whole of Stanage - maybe even El Capitan - but despite his dedication to design and detail, he can't quite put a number to his collection. "Let's just say a big suitcase is too small, and a semi-trailer is a bit too big," he says, his imprecision belying his neatly organised artefacts.

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Really interesting article, and what a nice guy he seems to be.

Could you ask him if he'd consider selling that silent partner? :P

Amazing collection and knowledge!  A real insight into devotion to a quirky cause.

Bonjour treesrockice, I understand and share very well your interest for the legendary Silent Partner. I first heard about it in Mike Strassman's 1990 edited book, Climbing Big Walls. I then contacted the inventor Mark Blanchard, Mammoth Lakes, who sent me an early documentation. After its release on the market I dreamed of it for months before being able to acquire a sample. At that time I did not yet know that its production would be abandoned by Rock Exotica...

Wow. I've got loads of stuff I never use. I started with old wooden ice axes, leather winter boots - then those Koflacs - cupboards full of stuff. I shall no longer accept it being called "Tat", it is now my "Private Museum". Best bit of kit? Belaying on a wedged out of date frozen Mars bar on Central Buttress in Stob Corrie Nan Lochan, just to wind up our mate who was a guide. I might have ate the historic artifact though.

Brilliant article. Thanks.

It is wonderful to see such a fine article about my friend and fellow collector Stéphane Pennequin. Bravo!

Gary S.
Vertical Museum