Method: Grappling Hooks

Whenever we see spies in cinema, miniature grappling hooks are ubiquitous. In the real world, they are not used as often as you might think. More often used for "safely" setting off IEDs, climbing with a grapple is avoided due to its risk. At best, a grappling hook only is as strong as whatever it is holding onto. It is likely to slip, so only use a grapple for short heights that may hurt but won't injure if you fall.

The hook you're most likely to run into is the four-prong collapsible version on EBay. Not a bad design, but it will bend quicker than you think. Another version you may not be as familiar with is the Pocket Grapple Hook, something you don't need at all but will want immediately. Be aware that any reviews have said the pocket version still is not good enough to support your weight.

To make your own, some say that the best bet is to get a deep-sea fishing hook, attach it to a chain, and then attach that to a rope. Probably not a good idea. I've never seen a fishing hook that I would trust my life to. If you really want to make one, our friends at Urban Exploration have several good ideas.

Carrying a grappling hook around with you is going to get you into trouble quicker than carrying lockpicks. Unless you've wearing an Omega watch with a grapple built in, it would be best to leave it in your HQ until it is needed.