Learn how to: Perform A Rutschblock Test

Rutschblock Test
The Rutschblock, like the Compression Test, uses increasing impact forces to test snow stability. The Rutschblock tests a larger area than the Compression Test and it uses a person's actual weight for the test.  This most likely gives testers a more accurate indication of stability; however, Rutschblocks take longer to perform and people typically perform fewer of them than Compression Tests.  So the trade off is that the actual test is probably more reliable but typically people will get information from fewer locations.  

To perform a Rutschblock, the slope angle should be at least 25 degrees and preferably 30 degrees or steeper.

Cut and isolated on all four sides and then have the biggest skier in your group with his or her pack on approach the block from the uphill side of the back cut. Now you will load the block in 7 steps and the score (1-7) is the loading step at which the block slides. (Watch the video above and see the interpreting results table below.)

• Rutschblocks can be adapted by non-skiers, using the same standards.

A.	B.	C.	D.
Mark width of pit with your ski and dig front wall about six feet wide.	Measure the slope angle of your Rutchsblock.	Mark the sides of the Block one pole length uphill. Next cut along those marks to the same depth as the front of the Block. You can use a snow saw or ski to cut the sides.	Move to the back of the Block and make a straight line that connects the side cuts.  Next use a saw or a ski to cut the back to the same depth as the front.  The back of block should be slightly narrower than front.
E.	F.	G.	H.
Step onto upper third of block.	Downweight with feet in place.	Jump hard once in place.	In this instance, the Block fractured after a single hard jump.

Loading Steps That Cause Block to Move	What Do These Scores Mean?
RB1 The Block fractures when you are digging or isolating the Block RB2 The Block fractures when skier is approaching the Block or gently stepping onto the upper third of block. RB3 The Block fractures when skier downweights with feet in place.	Indicates Poor Stability Similar slopes should be considered very unstable and avoided.
RB4 The Block fractures when skier vigorously jumps once in the same spot. RB5 The Block fractures when skier vigorously jumps a second time in the same spot.	Indicates Fair Stability Similar slopes should be considered “unstable” or “suspicious.”  Making conservative route selections and following Low Risk Travel protocols are essential.
RB6 The Block fractures after repeated vigorous jumps or after jumping onto bottom half of block. RB7 The Block does not fracture even after repeated vigorous jumps or the Block does not slide cleanly.	May indicate Good Stability Continue collecting data and proceed with caution.