There are a number of scenarios where backing up your rappel makes total sense. Most the time you can get away with not doing so but in the big hills it is a useful tool to have in your quiver<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://ll.broadbandsports.com/images/36151_thumb.jpg" alt="Climbing Tools: Backing up your rappel" title="Climbing Tools: Backing up your rappel" width="150" height="90" alt="Climbing Tools: Backing up your rappel"/>