While still in grade school, I started to make a copy of a Peck Hook using a hacksaw, file, and drill press. I stopped when I got this far. Its embarassing to look at, but it works.
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Embarassed by Version A, I resolved to make a satisfactory version quickly after getting my own milling machine. I rushed to complete this before going on a trip, and made a careless mistake by making the spine 1/2-in (12.7 mm) wide instead of 5/8-in (16 mm). The result is aesthetically unbalanced, so I quit before finishing the top. I must hang my head in shame.
Embarassed
even more by Version B than A, I finally took a picture of
a real Peck descender (from Alan Blackshaw, Mountaineering,
from Hill Walking to Alpine Climbing, 1968, provided to
me by Stéphane Pennequin), used the rope for scale, and
made a better copy from 25 mm. 6061-T6 plate, using a milling
machine and files. Of course, there are certainly differences
between the original and my copy, but at least this time I made
one that I feel realistically portrays the main features of the
original.
The Peck descender works by having the rope wrap around a vertical shaft. I prefer to have two or three wraps, since one does not provide enough friction. Like most vertical spools and similar devices like Patten's Hook, the Peck induces a lot if spin in free-hanging rappels.
I still have the original high on my most wanted list.
If you have one that you are willing to part with, please send an email to me.
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©2007, Gary D. Storrick