Trigger device: description and reviews

2024 Author: Howard Calhoun | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 10:16

The descender is part of the main device for climbing vertical planes (mountains, high-rise buildings, training slides). When climbing, only the main rope (not a safety analog) is used, and additional clamps, safety fuses are also used. Consider the features of some modifications and reviews about them.

Grab knot

This trigger is also called a prusik. The element is a short piece of rope connected to the ring by means of a paired marine knot. The diameter of the part should be exactly five millimeters, which allows you to fix it as tightly as possible. The knot is attached to the frame using several fixation methods.

The two most popular nodes are below:

1. The first variant is a knot with one tied end and a second repeating element. This method is used to temporarily hold the sling (when crossing or equipping the system with additional insurance).
2. Triple cord. It can be dangerous if used incorrectly. The rules for organizing such an attachment are as follows: the base must be thinner than the additional rope; when jerking, it can stronglydrag on. In addition, it is possible that the Prusik does not grasp after the first pull, which is fraught with its complete incapacity.

Pros and cons

Prusik benefits:

• Small mass.
• Convenient and easy attachment to the main system.
• Versatility.
• Ease of use.
• Does not critically affect rope wear.

This descender has certain disadvantages:

• Needing periodic weakening of the Prusik, which slows down the climb.
• Possibility of slipping of the knot under load, which is fraught with chafing of the rope knot.

Mechanical lifters

These modifications are positioned as improved Prusiks. Almost all devices work on a single rope. For example, the Wild Country Ropeman descender is compact and efficient. It consists of a knot with a built-in carabiner and camlot.

Positives:

• Ease of operation.
• Reliability and strength.
• Does not attack braid.

Among the cons:

• It is not designed for use with double rope.
• Has a relatively decent weight.

Some descenders in mountaineering can be used when ascending on the bottom of the rope. They are called "magic plates". The functionality of the model includes a pair of carbines. At the same time, the product does not require aggregation with additionalanalogues, however, lifting is not easy compared to a professional device, since it takes some time to master this device.

Petzl Descenders

This brand is known in the market for the production of rescue and climbing equipment. Let's start our review of lifts with the Tibloc series. This device has an original design. The device is devoid of moving parts, which makes it as easy to use as possible. Against this background, the device is distinguished by rather aggressive teeth, which can slip if not installed correctly, damaging the rope and disorienting the user. After several trainings, its operation will not cause problems.

The advantages of the tool include low weight and the absence of moving parts, and among the disadvantages - slow operation and the requirement for certain skills to use.

Ascender

This trigger can be compared to luxury cars by analogy. The unit is fast, easy to use, safe and indecently high price. For lifting, the unit is ideal. The device is equipped with an ergonomic handle, a well-thought-out lock with a latch and a lock. It can be operated freely with one hand. The design has a special hole for installing a fixing carabiner. Additional sockets for additional pedals and detents are available.

Advantages of the model: the most thoughtful design and ease of use,absolute ease of use. Among the minuses can be noted a lot of weight and high cost.

Petzl Croll Series

This variant is a lighter version of the previous model (no handle). But, there is one feature here - the construction of the Croll type. In fact, it is a special torso lift that allows you to rise on perfectly vertical surfaces. The fire rope-rappel device is attached directly to the safety loop, fixed by means of a similar tie around the neck.

Using this device in conjunction with a Handled Ascender type system (double leg loop) makes it possible to place both hands simultaneously on the upper element and the legs on the lower loop. This solution makes lifting easier and less exhausting for the user.

Pros:

• Quick work.
• Possibility to make climbing easier.
• Low mass.

Disadvantages include inconvenience when overcoming obstacles due to corners at the base of the structure and additional equipment on the rope.

Mini Traxion

This trigger device is a paratrooper. That is, it is designed to use the movement of goods up with the possibility of autonomous insurance and lifting. As a lift, the device is not as comfortable as analogues with handles, but it is very effective.

The main advantage of the unit in question is the convenience when lifting loads. Of the minuses, one can note not very convenientoperation, heavy weight and considerable time in preparation for work.

Petzl Shunt

The “Shunt” model is focused on belaying when descending a rope. However, it can be used for lifting. The main advantage of this descender fire device is the possibility of aggregation simultaneously with a pair of ropes, in case of urgent descent. The user can release the shunt and manipulate faster than with any other device. The main thing is to learn how to use the Shunt properly.

The advantages of this element include the possibility of using two ropes, as well as a gentle attitude towards them during operation. The negative aspects include a lot of weight and bulkiness.

Self-adhesive analogues

A belay device of this type is designed for the structure involved in the lifting system. They can only be operated in the lower zone from one of the elements discussed above. This is due to the fact that they have an offline blocking function. A big plus of such a unit is that you will have to take one less device with you, and it also provides a quick descent. As an example, consider one of these devices (other analogues work on an identical principle).

Gri-gri modification is one of the most popular devices in this category. It is focused on overcoming bench obstacles, comes complete with a lift and a handle. The model allowsprovide a quick descent if necessary. In addition, the set includes the descender itself, a grate, a lift with a handle. You can use the device for "pedal" descent.

Magic Plates

Among these modifications, the Petzl Reverso and Reversino brands became the most popular. They are used on the bottom cord of a rope when climbing. You will need a pair of carabiners to operate.

Benefits:

• Possibility of dual use, if necessary, can be useful in case of emergency without a special lift.
• Ergonomic and thoughtfully designed.

Flaws:

• The device is not for beginners, it will require certain skills to use.
• Additional carabiners required.

G8 Descender Description

This modification is one of the most popular in the organization of insurance in mountaineering, industrial action and rock climbing. For industrial purposes, an element with a latch is mainly used, which allows you to tie a rope in two or three knots. Peculiar mustaches, fangs or teeth can act as stoppers. Devices without clamps are classified as a sports type. They are distinguished by the ability to organize downhill skiing.

The detented figure-eight descender is oriented for aggregation with ropes with a diameter of 9 to 12 millimeters. It is worth noting that when using this device, you can use a single or doublerope.

User reviews

Let's consider the feedback from users of a Bento type escapement (horned figure eight). Owners note the convenience, ease of use and reliability of the device. Among the minuses: short horns, the possibility of twisting the rope.

Otherwise, consumers note that this type of slingshot is one of the best devices in its class. It is understandable in terms of operation to every beginner, has a high level of reliability. Despite all the shortcomings, the model in question is optimal for industrial and professional climbers, as well as amateur climbers. In general, users recommend this item for all lovers of climbing.