Climbing grades have always been an entirely subjective affair. Part of the reason for this is the variability in conditions of both weather and self that one might find themselves in while attempting and/or completing any given climb on any given day. Body morphology and style familiarity add still vastly more variability to the opinions of grade that might exist for any given route. With enough people to try a particular climb and offer their grade opinion, a consensus can be formed and a grade more or less agreed upon, but even so, this consensus number explains barely anything other than the vague sensation of difficulty that a selection of people have felt while climbing it. What any given grade really means for what to expect of a climb is anyone's guess.

Whether at the local crag, on a multi-pitch rock mission, or in the alpine on rock or ice, creating good anchor systems is a core climbing skill that needs to be learned and practiced. Taking a course or learning from experienced climbers is best for mastering the art of climbing anchors. The following is hopefully a good reminder or discussion starter.