How to identify a first printing
- Number line on copyright page; first printing carries the full descending line ending in 1
- Many titles state the printing explicitly ('First edition, [year]' or 'First printing')
- Nonprofit outdoor/conservation press of The Mountaineers club (Seattle), publishing since the 1960s; conventional identification
- Because guidebooks are serially revised, the EDITION number (1st/2nd/3rd edition) is the key bibliographic point, often printed as 'Second edition: first printing'
Notable points & cautions
- Flagship 'Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills' runs to many numbered editions; collectors track edition (content revision) not just printing
- Distinguish edition statements from printing lines — a guidebook can be a 'first printing' of a 'fourth edition'
- Braided River conservation titles are large-format; standard number-line identification applies
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Mountaineers Books, Skipstone, Braided River (conservation photography). Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Mountaineers Books / The Mountaineers book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. Number line on copyright page; first printing carries the full descending line ending in 1 Many titles state the printing explicitly ('First edition, [year]' or 'First printing')
Does Mountaineers Books / The Mountaineers use a number line?
Many titles state the printing explicitly ('First edition, [year]' or 'First printing')
Is a book-club edition a Mountaineers Books / The Mountaineers first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Flagship 'Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills' runs to many numbered editions; collectors track edition (content revision) not just printing
What era does this cover?
This covers Mountaineers Books / The Mountaineers (1960s–present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.