Belay Devices
“DUDE YOU’RE THE HAND”- RANDOM STONER IN COLORADO… Not what you want to hear when you’re 100 ft+ off the ground. Avoid being that idiot and learn which device is best for what you need and how to use it.
Mountain climbing is a thrilling and challenging adventure, but it can also be extremely dangerous if proper safety measures are not taken. Belay devices are essential tools that climbers use to control the rope during a climb, allowing them to safely ascend and descend the mountain. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of belay devices, their specific purposes, safety and inspection, and the number one device and company in the industry.
Types of Belay Devices:
Tube-style belay devices: These devices are the most common type of belay device used by climbers. They are versatile and can be used for both lead and top-rope climbing. Examples of tube-style belay devices include the Black Diamond ATC, Petzl Verso, and Mammut Smart. ( Has pictures of how to use the device on it. Makes it idiot proof..*should )
Assisted-braking belay devices: These devices are designed to help the belayer catch a fall in case the climber loses control. Examples of assisted-braking belay devices include the Petzl GriGri, Mammut Smart 2.0, and Black Diamond ATC Pilot.
Figure-eight belay devices: These devices are primarily used for rappelling and lowering climbers down. Examples of figure-eight belay devices include the Black Diamond Super 8 and Petzl Pirana.
Specific Purposes:
Each belay device has a specific purpose, and it is essential to choose the right device for the type of climb you are planning. Tube-style belay devices are versatile and can be used for both lead and top-rope climbing. Assisted-braking belay devices are designed to help the belayer catch a fall, while figure-eight belay devices are primarily used for rappelling and lowering climbers down.
Safety & Inspection:
Belay devices are critical safety tools, and it is essential to inspect them before each use. Check for any signs of wear or damage, and ensure that the device is functioning correctly. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and use the device only as intended. It is also important to use the correct type of rope for your belay device and ensure that it is properly threaded.
The most common belay device is the tube-style belay device, which is also known as the "ATC" (Air Traffic Controller). It is widely used in rock climbing, mountaineering, and other rope-based activities.
The Top 5 Belay Device Companies Are:
Black Diamond: Black Diamond is a leading manufacturer of climbing and mountaineering gear, and their ATC belay devices are among the most popular in the world.
Petzl: Petzl is another well-known brand in the climbing industry, and their GRIGRI belay device is a popular choice for those looking for an assisted braking device.
DMM: DMM is a UK-based company that produces a wide range of climbing gear, including belay devices such as the Pivot and the Mantis.
Edelrid: Edelrid is a German company that is known for producing high-quality climbing gear, including belay devices like the Mega Jul and the Giga Jul.
Mammut: Mammut is a Swiss company that produces a variety of outdoor gear, including belay devices such as the Smart 2.0 and the Bionic Alpine Belay.
Outdoor Dudes Pick:
All are more or less around the same price and have can execute the same tasks. I will say through the years and seeing wear and tear on both the Black diamond ATC and the Petzl verso, the verso takes the most noticeable damage and in some cases metal burs in critical spots where rope touches.
So outdoor dudes recommendation for this is pick whatever brand you want. Just don’t be an idiot and learn to use your equipment safely and correctly.
