Pitons are pins that are hammered into the rock, whereas nuts are small pieces of metal that fit into cracks and are removable.
In fact, some are so vehemently opposed that they state they would take violent action against an individual who was chipping.
To some, like climbing guide book author Stewart Green, chipped routes reflect "egotism, selfishness, and mediocrity.
[12] In an effort to partake in this endeavor, the National Park Service educates those looking to climb on its properties about the negative impact that practices like chipping have on natural resources.
[13] In February 2013, an anonymous video of world class climber Ivan Greene was released.
Due to the release of this video, Ivan Greene was dropped by his sponsor Edelrid who publicly announced that they would be cutting all ties to him.