Not sharpening gaffs increases the risk of climber cutouts.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Depends

Answer: (A)

Sharper gaffs bite into the surface, giving a secure hold with a smaller, controlled contact point. That bite lets the climber resist slipping under load without having to grind or twist the foot, which keeps movement to a minimum. When gaffs aren’t sharpened, they don’t penetrate as well and are more likely to skate or slide under pressure. That increased slip risk can cause the gaffs to gouge skin or clothing or to tear into the surface, producing cutouts. So not sharpening gaffs raises the chance of climber cutouts, making sharpening essential.

The other options don’t fit because the general safety principle is that sharp gaffs improve grip and reduce injury risk; claiming it doesn’t matter, or that it’s merely uncertain or dependent on circumstance, would overlook the consistent advantage of a sharp bite.