8mm Petzl Pulse Bolts: Technical Limitations
Pulse Bolts are a "new" technology in PNW canyoning. They are a great tool for many applications, but not for tensioning guided rappels.
8mm Petzl Pulse bolts were long available only in Europe. Since they have become available locally in the US they have enjoyed wide popularity in the canyoning community. We don’t want to dissuade anyone from learning how and when to use them.
However, the 8mm Pulse Bolts have technical weaknesses that create the potential for catastrophic accidents if not addressed now before their use becomes truly widespread in our community.
8mm Pulse Bolts are NOT approved to be used to tension guided rappels.
The Petzl Technical notice is clear: 8mm Pulse bolts are not appropriate anchors for tensioning guided rappels.
Do not use for setting up a slackline or for any similar use (constant tension with repeated vibrations).
What about 12mm Pulse Bolts?
The Petzl Technical Notice states that the 12mm Pulse Bolts meet EN 959 standards for class 2 rock anchors. Wild Sky Guides does not make any recommendation about whether or not they are appropriate for guided rappels.
However, drilling a 12mm hole removes a lot of the advantage of using Pulse Bolts.
More Information on Petzl Pulse Bolts
Are You Part of Washington's SAR Community?
Search and Rescue team leaders or members in Western Washington interested in developing potentially State-supported SAR canyoning training opportunities with Wild Sky Adventure Guides are encouraged to make contact. Wild Sky Guides is planning for 2026 and beyond and is open to discussions on how to build a more skilled and prepared rescue community.