In reply to Sl@te Head:
I generally find slate grading to be a little on the softer side but I do seem to have a preference for the climbing style.
There does seem to be some discrepancy between True Clip and Beltane. I tried True Clip then Beltane and found True Clip much harder – perhaps by a full grade? TC felt pretty impossible for me whereas Beltane seemed very possible. I’m intrigued to try TC again as I managed the first half but couldn’t seem to make the big moves above. Anyone around 5’4 done this one?
I think Beltane is a bit harder if you’re on the “shorter” side but not sure if it would warrant the plus and even then it’s considerably easier than True Clip. The guidebook says “7b for the tall” – I suppose “tall” is down to interpretation. I think sometimes “tall” is used a bit too vaguely and inconsistently in guidebooks – I guess it’s subjective and hard to judge. I found some tenuous stretched out sequences and some powerful dynamic moves that I felt would be easier with a few extra inches of reach, but no doubt those tiny slate edges are easier for smaller fingers and toes to use.
The Carbon Stage felt hard for the grade / out of keeping with slate grading, and the bolting is a bit trad!