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Grips FAQ

Whats the difference between Bolt-on Grips and Screw-on Grips?

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Bolt-on grips generally have one anchor point. They require 3/8" socket-head bolts and the installation of 3/8" T-nuts in the back of the wall. Once the T-nuts are installed, fastening and removing the holds is extremely easy. All you need is a 5/16 hex key/wrench.

Screw-on grips always have at least 2 anchor points. The pre-cast holes in each hold are 1/4" in diameter. We use #8 and #9 weather resistant Deck Mate screws to fasten them to the wall. You will need a power drill with a torx / star drive bit to install and remove these holds. Because the hardware is so much cheaper, screw-on holds are the way to go if you are on a budget.

What is the difference between
Polyurethane and Polystyrene?
(Aka 'Polyester Resin')

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Polystyrene is extremely rigid, which makes it very brittle.  Polystyrene holds are notorious for breaking by merely tightening the bolt. The strength of Polystyrene cannot be compare with the strength of Polyurethane. Of all Thermoset plastics, Polystyrene is the cheapest and poorest quality. It was never designed for making climbing holds.

If you see extremely inexpensive holds for sale, they are probably Polyester. Polyester resin, can be purchased for about $10 per gallon. We spend about $55 per gallon on our polyurethane. The difference in quality is well worth it.

Three Ball Climbing Holds are made in the USA with Polyurethane that was developed specifically for making climbing holds. This polyurethane is rigid and can withstand being fastened to the wall with extreme pressure. (if you over-tighten the bolt you're more likely to break the t-nut that the hold. Our polyurethane is non-toxic, environmentally friendly, and lead free!

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