Selecting a Belay DeviceThere are three main categories for belay devices.
- Tube Style belay devices are ideal for sport climbing. They are lightweight and low cost. Tube Style devices are available with multiple friction modes to aid in rappelling. Examples: ATC, B52
- Auto-Blocking belay devices allow belaying the second and can act as an emergency ascender making them ideal for multipitch climbing. Examples: Reverso, ATC Guide
- Auto-locking belay devices are best for climbing indoors or at your local crag. Though they reduce the climber's work load (because the device pinches the rope allowing the climber to reduce hand fatigue), Auto-locking belay devices are expensive, heavy and not ideal for rappelling. Examples: Grigri, Cinch
Full Article
