Chalk blocks are really easy to break into bits, no need for a hammer, just break it in your hands. As far as good vs. bad chalk- I’ve never got ‘bad chalk’ but I think that’s just a personal thing as I’ve heard others complain about really slippery chalk! Hangout sells loose chalk in little bags and it works well for me.

I go with a refillable chalk ball (bought it at Rockface for $8) cos I don’t use nearly as much chalk that way, and don’t spill any, and it gives me enough chalk. You can put loose chalk in there or bits broken off of block chalk.

Mick-

It’s worth a try, I haven’t bought chalk at Rockface for ages.

Re: the chalk balls, when they’re over-full I have a hard time getting chalk out of them as well. I fill mine to about 3/4 full and to get chalk out I just give it a squeeze. But then I’m not overly sweaty! I like to have a light covering of chalk on my hands, that’s all. Really it only helps if you’re slipping off of holds, so I try not to use it much on easier stuff.