Pulttaamalla

Pulttaamalla is the Finnish adverbial form meaning “by bolting” or “through bolting,” derived from the verb pultata, which means to fasten with bolts. In climbing and mountaineering contexts, pulttaamalla refers to the method of placing fixed anchors into rock or concrete by drilling and inserting bolts, often with hangers, to provide protection or aid for routes. The practice is commonly used in sport climbing to create bolted routes and in construction projects to secure structures.

In climbing, the process typically involves selecting a suitable surface, drilling a hole to a specified depth and diameter, inserting a bolt (hollow or expansion bolt, or resin-bonded glue-in bolt), and attaching a protection hanger or anchor. The bolts are designed to withstand dynamic loads, and routes are equipped with hangers or anchors at regular intervals, with maintenance checks over time.

Use of pulttaamalla can be subject to local regulations and conservation considerations, especially in natural areas where bolting may alter rock features or impact biodiversity. Debates in the climbing community concern ethics, conservation, and the balance between route development and preserving natural habitats. In non-climbing contexts, pulttaamalla may refer more generally to bolting tasks in construction or industrial settings.