The Beta Stick comes in 4 telescopic sections. You will probably be able to clip 90% of bolts with not more than 3 sections extended but for those really ridiculous first bolt placements the 4th section will give you a massive 15-foot reach. The only thing to watch for is that the 4th section is a little flimsy; don't lean on it too hard!

So, great for clipping out of reach bolts, but most climbers will find BetaStick's other feature even more useful. The twin prongs of the head have been carefully drilled at just the right angle to accept a Metolius M16 Bouldering Brush. Perfect for brushing up those out of reach holds at the boulders or in the climbing wall. What's more the holes are snug enough to prevent any brush movement and alleviate the need for extra tape.

Of course we have all climbed perfectly well without the BetaStick until now. But, faced with increasingly polished starts and a less macho attitude to 'making that first clip', there is every chance that you will start to see more and more BetaStick's propped up at the bottom of sports crags or strapped to the side of bouldering mats on the way to The Plantation.