{"id":11555,"date":"2025-06-25T09:46:03","date_gmt":"2025-06-25T09:46:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/?p=11555"},"modified":"2025-06-25T09:46:11","modified_gmt":"2025-06-25T09:46:11","slug":"understanding-climbing-equipment-classification-and-characteristics-of-belay-devices","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/25\/understanding-climbing-equipment-classification-and-characteristics-of-belay-devices\/","title":{"rendered":"Understanding Climbing Equipment &#8212; Classification and Characteristics of Belay Devices"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Currently, the belay devices we commonly see mainly fall into three categories:&nbsp;<strong>Figure-8 Descenders<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>ATC-style Tubular Devices<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<strong>Assisted Braking Device<\/strong>s.<\/p><p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong>I. Figure-8 Descenders<\/strong><\/p><p>Figure-8 descenders were the first generation of belay devices invented by climbers.<\/p><p>Their characteristics are a&nbsp;<strong>simple structure&nbsp;<\/strong>and<strong>&nbsp;straightforward operation<\/strong>.<\/p><p>Their rope diameter requirement is:&nbsp;<strong>\u2265&nbsp;<\/strong><strong>8mm and&nbsp;<\/strong><strong>\u2264&nbsp;<\/strong><strong>13mm<\/strong>.<\/p><p>The applicable rope range is relatively broad, so the figure-8 has a very wide range of applications, including&nbsp;<strong>mountaineering, rock climbing, canyoning, rescue operations,&nbsp;<\/strong>and&nbsp;<strong>industrial work<\/strong>.<\/p><p>Figure-8s produced by different manufacturers also vary in shape, as shown in the figures below. The most original is the circular figure-8. Since the circular shape can easily cause the rope to twist and tangle during use, some manufacturers have made corresponding improvements to the shape to address this shortcoming.<\/p><p>For example:<\/p><p>The French company PETZL produces the&nbsp;<strong>Huit&nbsp;<\/strong>and&nbsp;<strong>Huit Antibrulure<\/strong>.<\/p><p>The Huit&#8217;s square shape design helps prevent the rope from curling and tangling, making it difficult to operate.<\/p><p>The Huit Antibrulure features a small handle; when friction causes the device to heat up, gripping the handle prevents hand burns.<\/p><p>Additionally, since the braking performance of the standard figure-8 is not very sensitive, PETZL also developed and produces the&nbsp;<strong>Pirana<\/strong>, which has multiple braking positions. Its braking performance is improved when used for rappelling.<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"115\" height=\"192\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.001.jpg\" alt=\"1\" class=\"wp-image-11564\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 1: Circular Figure-8)<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"102\" height=\"178\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.002.jpg\" alt=\"2\" class=\"wp-image-11566\" style=\"width:110px;height:auto\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 2: Huit)<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"143\" height=\"267\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.003.jpg\" alt=\"3\" class=\"wp-image-11576\" style=\"width:124px;height:auto\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 3: Huit Antibrulure)<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"128\" height=\"182\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.004.jpg\" alt=\"4\" class=\"wp-image-11569\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 4: Pirana)<\/p><p><strong>Advantages of Figure-8 Descenders:<\/strong>&nbsp;Robust and wear-resistant, they work well even with stiffer ropes.<\/p><p><strong>Disadvantages:<\/strong>&nbsp;Slightly bulky, and braking\/locking performance is slightly inferior compared to other belay devices.<\/p><p><strong>Suitable for:&nbsp;<\/strong>Quick belaying operations and fast rappelling.<\/p><p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong>II. ATC-Style Tubular Devices<\/strong><\/p><p>ATC-style tubular devices offer very smooth rope feeding and taking in. The rope is less prone to curling and tangling, and the operation is simple. They can be used with&nbsp;<strong>single<\/strong>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<strong>double ropes<\/strong>, and their braking performance is superior to figure-8 descenders, making them very popular among climbers.<\/p><p>Products from different manufacturers have slightly different functionalities, so it is essential to carefully read the product manual before use.<\/p><p>Common ATC-style devices in China currently include:&nbsp;<strong>ATC, ATC XP, ATC Guide, REVERSO, REVERSINO<\/strong>, etc., as shown below.<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"267\" height=\"267\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.005.jpg\" alt=\"5\" class=\"wp-image-11572\" srcset=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.005.jpg 267w, https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.005-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 267px) 100vw, 267px\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 5: ATC)<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"267\" height=\"267\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.006.jpg\" alt=\"6\" class=\"wp-image-11573\" srcset=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.006.jpg 267w, https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.006-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 267px) 100vw, 267px\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 6: ATC XP)<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"378\" height=\"378\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.007.png\" alt=\"7\" class=\"wp-image-11577\" srcset=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.007.png 378w, https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.007-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.007-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 378px) 100vw, 378px\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 7: ATC Guide)<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"185\" height=\"221\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.008.jpg\" alt=\"8\" class=\"wp-image-11567\" srcset=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.008.jpg 185w, https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.008-150x179.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 185px) 100vw, 185px\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 8: REVERSO)<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"171\" height=\"221\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.009.jpg\" alt=\"9\" class=\"wp-image-11571\" srcset=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.009.jpg 171w, https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.009-150x194.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 171px) 100vw, 171px\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 9: REVERSINO)<\/p><p><strong>ATC:&nbsp;<\/strong>The original ATC-style device produced by Black Diamond. Suitable rope diameter: 8.5mm to 11mm.<\/p><p><strong>ATC XP:&nbsp;<\/strong>An improved version of the ATC. Friction on the brake strand can be adjusted by changing the rope direction. Suitable rope diameter: 8.1mm to 11mm.<\/p><p><strong>ATC Guide:&nbsp;<\/strong>Performance is similar to the REVERSO. It is a device with an auto-locking mode. By changing the rope direction, it can accommodate ropes from 7.7mm to 11mm.<\/p><p><strong>REVERSO &amp; REVERSINO:&nbsp;<\/strong>Produced by PETZL, these devices incorporate significant improvements based on the ATC concept.<\/p><p>Besides the basic belaying mode, their most important feature is the addition of the&nbsp;<strong>auto-locking mode<\/strong>. When a climber falls, the force pulling the rope presses the free end of the rope against the REVERSO, creating a braking action.<\/p><p>Friction can also be adjusted by changing the threading direction or the carabiner orientation for better control.<\/p><p>REVERSO suitable rope diameter: 8mm to 11mm.<\/p><p>REVERSINO suitable rope diameter: 7.5mm to 8.2mm.<\/p><p>Due to their superior braking performance compared to figure-8 descenders, ATC-style devices are widely used for rock climbing and ice climbing belays.<\/p><p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong>III. Assisted Braking Devices<\/strong><\/p><p><strong>GRIGRI:&nbsp;<\/strong>Produced by PETZL, this is a device with a mechanical braking structure, as shown below.<\/p><p>It is used for&nbsp;<strong>single rope<\/strong>&nbsp;belaying and rappelling. Suitable rope diameter:&nbsp;<strong>10mm to 11mm<\/strong>.<\/p><p>Its greatest advantage is its&nbsp;<strong>automatic braking system<\/strong>. Designed entirely with safety in mind, it significantly enhances operational safety.<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"161\" height=\"227\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.010.jpg\" alt=\"10\" class=\"wp-image-11574\" srcset=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.010.jpg 161w, https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.010-150x211.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 161px) 100vw, 161px\" \/><\/figure><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"170\" height=\"233\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.011.jpg\" alt=\"11\" class=\"wp-image-11570\" srcset=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.011.jpg 170w, https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.011-150x206.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 170px) 100vw, 170px\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 10: GRIGRI)<\/p><p>Compared to figure-8 and ATC-style devices, assisted braking devices are slightly more complex to operate.<\/p><p><strong>Rope installation direction is strictly defined, distinguishing the climbing end and the brake end.<\/strong><\/p><p>When the climbing end is suddenly loaded, the cam rapidly rotates and pinches the rope, causing it to stop.<\/p><p>Rope feeding and handling also have specific requirements: during belaying, the brake strand must always be held in hand; releasing it is strictly prohibited.<\/p><p>Rappelling speed is controlled by operating the handle while simultaneously holding the brake strand.<\/p><p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>1. Dedicated Descenders and Their Characteristics<\/strong><\/p><p>Belay devices can also be used for rappelling besides belaying. Additionally, there is a category of devices dedicated solely to rappelling.<\/p><p>These descenders are specifically designed for rappelling and are generally not used for belaying during climbing. Being dedicated to rappelling, their descent and locking functions are often superior.<\/p><p>Common dedicated descenders include:&nbsp;<strong>STOP, SIMPLE,&nbsp;<\/strong>and&nbsp;<strong>RACK<\/strong>, as shown below.<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"72\" height=\"267\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.012.jpg\" alt=\"12\" class=\"wp-image-11557\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 11: STOP)<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"80\" height=\"267\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.013.jpg\" alt=\"13\" class=\"wp-image-11568\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 12: SIMPLE)<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"53\" height=\"267\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.014.jpg\" alt=\"14\" class=\"wp-image-11575\" \/><\/figure><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"70\" height=\"192\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.015.jpg\" alt=\"15\" class=\"wp-image-11578\" \/><\/figure><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"72\" height=\"192\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.016.jpg\" alt=\"16\" class=\"wp-image-11560\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 13: RACK)<\/p><p><strong>STOP:&nbsp;<\/strong>Used for&nbsp;<strong>single rope rappelling<\/strong>. Features an operating handle; releasing the handle activates the auto-stop system. Holding the handle appropriately while pulling the rope tail controls descent speed. STOP requires rope diameters between&nbsp;<strong>9mm and 12mm<\/strong>.<\/p><p><strong>SIMPLE:&nbsp;<\/strong>Used for&nbsp;<strong>single rope rappelling<\/strong>. Descent speed is controlled by pulling the rope tail. Ideal for use in narrow crevasses. SIMPLE requires rope diameters between&nbsp;<strong>9mm and 12mm<\/strong>.<\/p><p><strong>RACK:&nbsp;<\/strong>Can be used for&nbsp;<strong>single or double rope rappelling<\/strong>. Speed can be adjusted based on rope and load conditions. Provides even friction, protecting the rope. The rope does not tangle during descent.<\/p><p>For single rope: rope diameter between&nbsp;<strong>9mm and 13mm<\/strong>.<\/p><p>For double ropes: rope diameter between&nbsp;<strong>8mm and 11mm<\/strong>.<\/p><p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>2. Types and Characteristics of Ascenders<\/strong><\/p><p>Ascenders are primarily used for ascending a rope or hauling loads.<\/p><p>Based on their purpose, ascenders can be classified as:&nbsp;<strong>Handled Ascenders, Chest Ascenders, Footloop Ascenders (or Pantins),&nbsp;<\/strong>and<strong>&nbsp;Multi-purpose Ascenders<\/strong>.<\/p><p>Below are introductions to several ascender products from PETZL.<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"129\" height=\"267\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.017.jpg\" alt=\"17\" class=\"wp-image-11565\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 14: ASCENSION)<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"256\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.018.jpg\" alt=\"18\" class=\"wp-image-11561\" srcset=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.018.jpg 200w, https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.018-150x192.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 15: CROLL)<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"162\" height=\"111\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.019.jpg\" alt=\"19\" class=\"wp-image-11562\" srcset=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.019.jpg 162w, https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.019-150x103.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 162px) 100vw, 162px\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 16: PANTIN)<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"168\" height=\"267\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.020.jpg\" alt=\"20\" class=\"wp-image-11558\" srcset=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.020.jpg 168w, https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.020-150x238.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 168px) 100vw, 168px\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 17: TIBLOC)<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"209\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.021.jpg\" alt=\"21\" class=\"wp-image-11563\" srcset=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.021.jpg 200w, https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.021-150x157.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 18: MICROCENDER)<\/p><figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"187\" height=\"253\" src=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.022.jpg\" alt=\"22\" class=\"wp-image-11559\" srcset=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.022.jpg 187w, https:\/\/aokwit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ahjta-473nq.022-150x203.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 187px) 100vw, 187px\" \/><\/figure><p>(Figure 19: SHUNT)<\/p><p><strong>ASCENSION (Handled Ascender):&nbsp;<\/strong>For ascending fixed single ropes from 8mm to 13mm. Ergonomically designed for one-handed installation on the rope. Provides an optimal handgrip, aligning the wrist with the pulling direction. An elastic rubber handle ensures comfortable grip. The chrome-plated steel cam has angled teeth to grip wet, icy, snowy, or muddy ropes. Available in left-hand and right-hand versions.<\/p><p><strong>CROLL (Chest Ascender):<\/strong>&nbsp;For ascending single ropes from 8mm to 13mm. Can be used in combination with a handled ascender.<\/p><p><strong>PANTIN (Footloop Ascender):&nbsp;<\/strong>Used together with the CROLL and ASCENSION ascenders, making rope climbing easier. Keeps the body upright during ascent, enabling faster and less tiring climbing. Features an auto-locking buckle for easy adjustment. Note: PANTIN is not a protection device; it is solely an aid for rope climbing. Used on the right foot. Suitable for single ropes from 8mm to 13mm.<\/p><p><strong>TIBLOC (Compact Ascender):&nbsp;<\/strong>Small and lightweight for easy carrying. Suitable for single ropes from 8mm to 11mm. Can be used in pulley systems, rope ascents, etc. Used with a locking carabiner with a round or oval cross-section of 10mm or 12mm.<\/p><p><strong>MICROCENDER (Ascender):&nbsp;<\/strong>For single ropes from 9mm to 13mm. Used for self-belaying, pulley systems, or hauling loads. Slides easily upward but locks effectively downward.<\/p><p><strong>SHUNT (Ascender\/Belay Backup Device):&nbsp;<\/strong>For single ropes (10mm-11mm) or double ropes (8mm-11mm). Can be used for rope ascents or as a mechanical alternative to an auto-block knot (Prusik). Installed below a rappel device as a backup; it will lock the rope if the hand releases the brake strand during descent.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Currently, the belay devices we commonly see mainly fall into three categories:&nbsp;Figure-8 Descenders,&nbsp;ATC-style Tubular Devices, and&nbsp;Assisted Braking Devices. I. Figure-8<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":11579,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[106],"tags":[260],"class_list":["post-11555","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-expert-advice","tag-climbing-gear"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Understanding Climbing Equipment - Classification and Characteristics of Belay Devices - AOKWIT: Professional provider of high-quality UIAA mountaineering, rappelling, rock climbing, and training gear, dedicated to equipping adventurers with reliable and performance-driven equipment for all their outdoor challenges.<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/aokwit.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/25\/understanding-climbing-equipment-classification-and-characteristics-of-belay-devices\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Understanding Climbing Equipment - Classification and Characteristics of Belay Devices - AOKWIT: Professional provider of high-quality UIAA mountaineering, rappelling, rock climbing, and training gear, dedicated to equipping adventurers with reliable and performance-driven equipment for all their outdoor challenges.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Currently, the belay devices we commonly see mainly fall into three categories:&nbsp;Figure-8 Descenders,&nbsp;ATC-style Tubular Devices, and&nbsp;Assisted Braking Devices. 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