Tubular belay device. There are three main types of belay devices, the tubular ATC, the auto-locking belay device and the semi-assisted belay devices. Dec 16, 2022 · Instead, it’s figuring out which belay device is best amongst the myriad of belay devices on the market. The amount of friction can be comple Dec 12, 2024 · Tubular belay device is a type of device most used by professional mountain climbers, they are known as tubular belay device (ATC), meaning "air traffic controller". However, three main types of devices exist: tubular belay devices, assisted braking belay devices, and the figure 8. There are many belay devices available from tubular belay devices (e. Mar 23, 2022 · Manual belay devices, such as these two tubular models, connect to carabiners via a wire loop (Image credit: Getty) Manual braking devices are the workhorses of the belaying device world. What is a climbing belay device? A climbing belay device is a tool used by climbers to control the rope holding a climber in case the climber falls and/or when the climber needs to be lowered. They vary in price, ease of use, safety features, and level of assistance with braking. It’s simple design made its debut in 1993, quickly becoming the most popular belay device on the market. Made with a stainless steel core that will last years and won’t heat up like other belay devices. Some of them can also be used for rappelling. You simply insert a bent rope bight into one slot and clip a carabiner through the loop to attach the carabiner to your belay loop on your harness. Top quality, great selection and expert advice you can trust. With the right belay device, a small, weak climber can easily arrest the fall of a much heavier partner. It has two different sides, one with higher friction for a safe belay and the other that can be used when you want a smoother ride (stay in high friction normally). The ATC was initially a specific belay device developed by Black Diamond. 7 mm lines felt totally secure. ” (This was a joke on the part of Black Diamond, given that the ATC’s primary use is to belay or “control” a climber high in the air on a rope, or allow a climber to control their descent. But which one is the best? Belay devices come in three different categories — tube-style, auto-blocking devices, and assisted braking devices — and our expert climbing testers have put in hundreds of hours belaying and testing all three kinds. Extremely versatile belay device for climbing. But selecting one of the modern tubular or assisted style belay devices is a great place to start. Sep 12, 2019 · A climber uses the geometry-assisted Mammut Smart 2. While Black Diamond created the original ATC, and maintains the ownership of the name, everyone pretty much refers to any tubular belay device as an ATC. Expert tips for climbers. The Evolution of Belaying and Belay Devices Overtime What Is An ATC? ATC stands for Air Traffic Controller. I would advocate for learning on the Jul2 - if you can lead belay using a Jul2, you should be able to lead belay using any tubular style device, should the need ever arise. That metal loop allows you to attach the device directly to an anchor and set it up in assisted-braking mode. Jun 30, 2023 · The two main belay device types are tubular, or “tube-style,” and mechanically assisted devices. The climbing rope is threaded into one or both of the tubes of the belay device. They are versatile, lightweight, and easy to use. Tubular belay devices allow for smooth rope management and can accommodate a wide range of rope diameters. The belayer uses their braking hand to create friction on the rope, enabling them to control the rope’s speed and lock it off if necessary. 0 belay device. The carabiner hole allows the device to be used in guide’s mode, clipped to a high anchor. Explore the different types of belay devices and learn what suits you best with our buying guide. Nowadays, belay devices with this specific design are all referred to as ATC. By attaching your third-hand first, you can use it to hold up the weight of the rope making attaching your tubular belay device easier. Photo: Onsight Climbing Gym in Singapore. It is a type of tubular aperture belay device. There are several types, but for beginners, a tubular belay device is often advised due to its simplicity and versatility. com Feb 22, 2020 · Knowing which belay device to use for every occasion and how to operate the device properly is key for safety and success when it comes to climbing ropes. Tube-style belay devices, also known as manual or tubular belay devices, consist of one or two tubes or elongated holes. A popular example of the former is the Black Diamond ATC, the latter the Petzl GriGri. Two seconds can be belayed at once this way. Tubular belay devices have one or two holes through which a single rope or a pair of twin or half ropes can pass and can also be used Feb 22, 2020 · Belaying is an often overlooked, but essential skill to safe climbing, we share how to belay when climbing safely for top roping and lead climbing. By Halil Ngah It has been two years since a handful of gyms on the tropical island country of Singapore made the controversial decision to ban the use of tubular belay devices (ATCs and similar pieces). Jul 15, 2010 · When I belay I usually use a grigri but I also have an ATC. 【#3】2-Pack 6mm Prusik Loop 12-inch. Here are our best belay device picks! Dec 22, 2023 · In this article, I’ll briefly discuss the evolion of belaying and belay devices overtime, talk about some of the most common belay devices on the market, including thier pros and cons, and then share my unsolicited advice to help you deploy the right belay device at the right time. Figure 8 Devices – Primarily used in rescue scenarios or for controlled rappelling. 00:00 Intro02:07 Tube Style Devices06:00 Assi Jul 14, 2024 · Choose the best belay device in India: tubular for versatility, assisted-braking for safety, or figure 8 for rappelling needs. Examples of tubular belay devices include the Black Diamond ATC, Petzl Verso, and DMM Pivot. Understand the differences between all Belaying Devices and Learn how to use any of them Safely and Efficiently. The ATC is a belay device used by a person on the ground – the belayer – to manage the rope attached to the climber and catch Shop for Belay and Rappel Devices at REI - Browse our extensive selection of trusted outdoor brands and high-quality recreation gear. There can be anything ranging from sports climbing, single-pitch climbing, multi-pitch climbing, gym-based climbing, and rappelling. Nov 6, 2022 · Origins The ATC by Black Diamond is a contemporary iteration of older tube-style belay devices. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee To belay with a tube-style, or tubular device, simply pinch a small section of rope, feed the bend of it through one of the holes, and clip a locking carabiner through the loop that appears on the other side. Black Diamond named it the “Air Traffic Controller” as a tongue-in-cheek reference to falling climbers. The advantage of a guide-mode device over a regular tubular belay device is that it can be secured directly to the anchor in a way that makes the device brake automatically when your seconder falls or rests on the rope. See full list on rei. These systems all work in a similar way, it is thanks to the friction between the device and the climbing rope that they are able to brake a fall. This article covers some of today’s most common styles of belay devices on the market. Learn to choose between tubular and assisted-braking belay devices and find the right style for climbing multi-pitch or working routes in the gym. Tubular belay devices have one or two holes through which a single rope or a pair of twin or half ropes can pass and can also be used Apr 25, 2024 · About this item GM CLIMBING Belay Package. Arresting a fall is done by holding firmly the rope. At that time, all members of those Singapore gyms who were certified to belay with Nov 3, 2020 · The classic tubular belay device. Belay devices act as a friction brake, so that when a Every challenge course, rope course, climbing gym or aerial adventure park needs a trusty belay device that will meet your belaying and rappelling needs. Tubular Belay Devices – Tubular belay devices are the most versatile and the most popular belay devices out there, as they can be used for pretty much any activity involving climbing. To use a tubular belay device, the rope is folded and inserted into the device, then clipped to the belayer’s harness with a locking carabiner through the loop created when folded. And while they’re both great for lead and top rope belaying, they aren’t exactly interchangeable. Developed especially for alpine terrain. ATC in climbing and belaying activities has become popular with climbers and is a great innovation for climbing. Belay Devices for Climbing & Mountaineering The belay device has to fit your skills and plans. Tubular belay devices are perfect for any type of climb, anywhere, which is why everyone from beginners to the big-time pros have these. Tubular Belay Devices: Tubular belay devices are the most widely used type. Tubular belay device Prior to the invention of the assisted-braking belay device, the tubular belay device reigned supreme. Rappelling with double 7. 【#1】 V-grooved Tubular Belay Device: light and compact, smooth rope control, EN 15151-2 and UIAA certified; 【#2】 HMS screw locking carabiner: 25kN breaking strength, large gate opening, both CE and UIAA certified. Tubular belay devices are the perfect companions for the belayer who needs a simple yet super effective device. The loop is used when setting up the belay device at an anchor so that the belayer can top-belay a second. It has since become so popular and its design has been replicated by other brands. Then embark on a short summary of how they work, where they work best, and then finish off with a few recommendations for would-be buyers. What Is a Non-Assisted Braking Device? Non-assisted braking devices require the belayer to keep their hand on the brake end of the rope and will only catch the climber if their hand remains Nov 17, 2023 · The ATC is a line of tubular belay devices produced by Black Diamond. Nov 14, 2024 · Black Diamond ATC-Guide: Versatile tubular device for single and double ropes. The original Black Diamond “ATC” shares its name with an acronym that more commonly stands for “Air Traffic Controller. Here’s a short rundown on the differences (and if you want a full pro and con list, jump ahead to our full belay device breakdown. A second carabiner Tubular belay devices are a classic choice for climbers seeking simplicity, reliability, and smooth rope control. The EDELRID GIGA JUL is a tuber and autotuber in one. [1] It is designed to improve belay safety for the climber by allowing the belayer to manage their duties with minimal physical effort. g. Featuring auto belays, tubular, and assisted-braking device options, we have you covered. They are a popular choice among climbers for their simplicity and reliability. Assisted braking climbing belaying devices are used to stop the fall of the lead climber. The Omega SBG is a multi configuration belay device that has you covered for any situation! Description By incorporating a rigid stem on this device, climbers go from full lock-off to whipping out rope in a single, smooth action—no more binding up as the device tries to free itself. 6 days ago · Auto-block tubular belay devices have an additional metal loop on the side. Belay devices are used to control a rope by introducing friction when belaying, arresting falls, lowering climbers, rappelling or abseilling. Jul 23, 2025 · Practically, you can use tubular belay devices in almost any situation that involves a climbing activity. Final Thoughts Belay devices are essential for climbing safety and efficiency. Lightweight and easy to use, they work with a wide range of rope diameters and are ideal for both beginners and experienced climbers. Figure 8 Belay Device Including such devices as the Mammut Bionic Figure 8, Black Diamond Super 8, and Petzl Huit Figure 8, these are decidedly more of an "old-school" option. ) A standard and assisted-braking tubular belay device in one, the versatile Edelrid Giga Jul belay device offers assisted braking that can be activated or disabled with a sliding mechanism. Whatever your plans—a climbing gym, sport climbing, or a multi-pitch route—you need a belay device that you know how to use. Tubular belay devices These are very versatile devices and hence Oct 8, 2018 · Essentially a Plaquette is a tubular belay device with an additional metal loop on the side. Main benefits of tubular Learn how to choose the best belay devices for climbing, including key factors for selecting belay equipment and climbing belay devices to ensure safety and performance. 1. After all, as a belayer, the rope, and therefore your partner’s life will be in your hands. Is there any benefit to using a figure 8 as opposed to tubular belay devices or a locking assist belay device? Thanks Jul 23, 2025 · The use of belay devices such as GriGri vs. The rope slots are deeply grooved on one side to grab thin ropes. My favorite belay device I've ever used was an old sticht plate. Those looking for more security may opt for an assisted braking device, such as a Grigri, which helps to catch a fall more automatically. A belay device is a mechanical piece of climbing equipment used to control a rope during belaying. May 5, 2025 · A belay device is essential for catching falls anytime you're climbing on a rope. Oct 5, 2020 · The aluminum-bodied Pro guide Lite combines the features of a standard tubular belay device with a guide’s plate. Mega Jul, ClickUp, Pilot), and cam assisted braking devices (e. Oct 1, 2021 · The Air Traffic Controller is the classic climbing belay device that most climbers have used at some point. Whil e it’s not . Jan 4, 2024 · We break down every type of belay device and talk about where belaying started, and talk about which devices work best for your style of climbing. GriGri, Matik, Lifeguard). They are essentially based on tubular belaying devices but are equipped with a camming device that comes into play when the rope is put under tension (in case of a fall). Grab both strands of the rope and push them through both sides of the tubular belay device. Feb 12, 2024 · When looking for a rappel device for your next climb, be sure to consult this list. It is designed to improve belay safety for the climber by allowing the belayer to manage their duties with minimal physical effort. Grigris and tubular devices (colloquially called ATCs) both have an important role in rock climbing. There are two primary categories that belay devices fall under: either non-assisted braking, or assisted braking. Assisted-Braking Devices – Ideal for added safety and ease of use. Tubular belay devices have one or two holes through which a single rope or a pair of twin or half ropes can pass and can also be used The break-assist Edelrid Jul 2 is a single tubular belay device designed for beginners, gym climbers and single-pitch climbers. ATC, Reverso, Piu 2), geometrically assisted braking devices (e. Tubular belay devices have one or two holes through which a single rope or a pair of twin or half ropes can pass and can also be used for belaying the second climber. Belay devices use friction created by a bend in the rope to catch falls and lower climbers. You’ll find out exactly what belay devices are, including a quick overview of each type of belay device by category. Tubular belay devices have one or two holes through which a single rope or a pair of twin or half ropes can pass and can also be used A belay device is a mechanical piece of climbing equipment used to control a rope during belaying. The device helps the belayer in their task to stop the fall; however, the rope must always be held firmly, even by using this king of Mar 13, 2025 · Tubular Belay Devices – Common in indoor climbing and challenge courses. Keep reading to learn about belay devices and how to pick the right one based on your climbing experience and the style of climbing you enjoy. We divided them up in 3 main categories, tubular, figure eight and assisted breaking. They have a tube-like shape with two slots or channels for the rope to pass through. Learn about different types of belay devices, from tubular to assisted braking, and how to choose the right one for your climbing needs. The ridges increased the friction of the rope, therefore, allows the belayer with more control on the speed of the climber being lowered. Kong GiGi: Lightweight guide plate for multi-pitch climbs. The loop of rope passes through the holes and is then clipped with a carabiner to the harness. Jun 23, 2024 · Tubular Belay Devices Tubular belay devices are one of the most common types used in ice climbing. How to choose the right belay device for you? There are several different belay devices out there. ) The Jun 9, 2023 · Discover the pros and cons of the three major types of belay devices for rock climbing: tube-style, assisted braking, and figure 8 devices. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned climber, understanding the options available and how to use them properly will make your climbing experiences safer and more enjoyable The tubular device with ridges or grooved slots on one side – This belay device is common among climbers who use it for lead climbing. These types of "hybrid" belay devices are lighter than camming action devices, and are also able to accommodate two strands of rope. Even today, when devices such as the Petzl GriGri are all but ubiquitous, the easy-to-use, fuss-free simplicity and versatility of “tubers” means they’re still a firm favorite with crag climbers, trad climbers, and mountaineers everywhere. lce ezs vrksz iysbo vqbibgs mlemyy vewa ckkicls wuf qlds