Best atc belay device. Guide Mode is an auto-locking belay technique for climbing.

Best atc belay device Here are our in-depth reviews. Here, we review and recommend the best assisted-braking belay devices for rock climbing. I don't like being belayed on 8 mm or 8. Aug 6, 2021 · Not sure which belay device to get? We tested the Petzl GriGri 2 and Black Diamond ATC side-by-side to help you know which is right for you. With the right belay device, a small, weak climber can easily arrest the fall of a much heavier partner. Shop our ATC Guide, ATC XP & more belaying & rappelling gear. There are a variety of tubular belay device designs on the market today (i. It belongs to a group of belay devices which are in the Czech Republic called the “buckets”. If we do our job correctly, by the end of this article, you’ll know which belay device is best for you. Petzl recommended lock-defeat-belay technique is tiring for the left arm if the rope isn't perfectly stacked and flaked, as you cannot use your right hand to assist. It is possible to dynamically belay both leader and the second, while the second can be belayed by tope rope belay either with the body or from top belay Jan 14, 2019 · Your ATC Guide or similar plaquette-style belay device is of course great for belay and rappel, but can also be rigged as an ascender. However, many belay devices are designed with top belaying especially in mind and will do this job much better. It has multiple friction modes to let you determine your needs when belaying different climbers. I’ve used Black Diamond ATCs and other tubular devices for climbing as well as Figure 8s for rappelling with minimum complaints. It costs very little and last a long time. Don't buy a Atc Belay Device in the US before reading our rankings | bestchoice. Keep reading to find out what are the best belay devices you can get this year. Team grigri here. Jun 27, 2023 · (ATC officially stands for “Air Traffic Control”, but everyone calls it “ATC” or a “tube-style belay device”) The ATC is the old-timer belay device. Others have their preferences for similar designs from other brands, but I am pretty confident more mountains have been climbed with the ATC guide than any other. What is/would be your preffered way to rappel on a 6mm rope like the petzl rad line? Are there any devices like the petzl reverso or black diamond atc that work on a 6mm rope? thanks in advance for help:) Dec 15, 2021 · Belay Devices and Techniques for Belaying From Above In theory, any belay device can be used to belay from above. Find out how to pick the right one, use it safely, and keep it in top condition for your climbing trips. It has since become so popular and its design has been replicated by other brands. 2024 Climb Guide Harnesses, Ropes, Pro, Pads, Shoes & More Explore Sep 21, 2023 · After months of testing, our avid rock climber and resident expert found the best climbing belay devices of 2023. Nov 3, 2020 · We've brought you all the best belay device reviews out there, so just sit back & enjoy. Aug 26, 2021 · Here, I present a comparison review of Black Diamond’s ATC Belay/Rappel Device (ATC) and ATC-Guide/Rappel Device (Guide)—I believe that ATCs still have an important place in rock climbing. Guide Mode is an auto-locking belay technique for climbing. 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. It can be downright overwhelming with so many types and brands out there. There isn't anything on the market that remotely comes close to the ease of use for lead belay. It works well for belaying top-rope, belaying a leader, and rappelling. Many climbing gyms have guests use the Petzl Grigri, one of the premier assisted braking devices. Caving, mountaineering, multi-pitch, cragging, canyoning, each activity has its device. Yes. How to choose? Jan 15, 2018 · The new Black Diamond ATC Pilot is a lightweight assisted braking belay device for single-pitch climbs. ATC stands for Air Traffic Control. It’s not just about having a belay device; it’s about having the right one that suits your climbing style and situation. Jan 14, 2025 · For the few pennies extra which it costs I prefer to have a dedicated belay device for half ropes, and for that my favourite is the ATC Alpine Guide (the green one). The original ATC works well with rock climbing ropes 10mm and larger, while the Black Diamond ATC-XP better handles the smaller ropes used for ice climbing and canyoneering. A friend let me use it on a couple of gym days and it was really intuitive and a nice belay device. Feb 2, 2024 · However many climbers are wondering what’s the best option to add some extra security to your toughest routes? A belay device, but not just any standard one… we only present some of the best belay climbing devices you can possibly find on the market! Apr 28, 2025 · Here are some tips and the best method for giving a good toprope belay, whether you’re using a tube device like an ATC or a brake-assisted belay device like the grigri. Shop for Belay and Rappel Devices at REI - Browse our extensive selection of trusted outdoor brands and high-quality recreation gear. But how do you rappel with an ATC? The lifeguard can be used with classic belay techniques, with single ropes, ranging from 8 9 millimeters to 11 millimeters for lead and top rope climbing in the description to get this product today, at the best price, the lifeguard belay device with assisted braking is compact, light and durable. 7 to 11 mm; less suitable for thicker or static Independent belay/rappel device reviews by real outdoors people. Dec 16, 2022 · Instead, it’s figuring out which belay device is best amongst the myriad of belay devices on the market. What Does ATC Stand For In Climbing? ATC stands for Air Traffic Controller. [1] It is designed to improve belay safety for the climber by allowing the belayer to manage their duties with minimal physical effort. We really expected the newer devices with friction grooves to blow this old school model away but we were impressed with how the ATC pays out climbing rope as well, and maybe better, than many of the newer models. With it you can belay on top rope and lead in sport and trad climbing, as well as rappel from the top of a route. This guide explains how each model handles braking, blocking, and rope handling, helping new climbers pick a device that matches their Stoked for climbing season? Let’s chat belay devices. Explore durable climbing belay & rappel devices from Black Diamond to gear up for your next descent. Its construction is based on the early Sticht plate. While many novice canyoneers start out with simple belay or rappel devices like an ATC or an 8-ring, these elementary options won’t meet the needs of more advanced canyoneers. However Aug 26, 2025 · New to climbing? Learn how to choose the best belay devices for beginners with our simple guide to safety, types, features, and top picks. Find top brands, exclusive offers, and unbeatable prices on eBay. What Is An ATC? ATC stands for Air Traffic Controller. Black Diamond ATC Guide The Black Diamond ATC Guide (MSRP: $29. Our new device has been constructed using hot forged aircraft grade aluminum and stainless steel The ATC-XP is the next evolution of Black Diamond’s ‘Air Traffic Controller’, tubular belay device. com Dec 22, 2022 · However, which device is best for you is much less clear. With an oval-ized anchor-hole, the device now feeds rope and allows you to pull rope more easily. Black Diamond ATC, Petzl Verso, etc), but they require the same belay technique. Our most versatile belay/rappel device, the Black Diamond ATC-Guide is now 10% lighter and features improved handling in guide mode. e. However, it does have drawbacks like 1 day ago · Easily compare & choose from the best Atc Belay Device for you. So will the Trango B52 but I think the ATC-Guide is harder to mis-use. Aug 24, 2018 · Belay devices are experiencing a renaissance of sorts, with more innovative options on the market than ever. . This Tech Tip is about using the ATC-XP. Includes the pros and cons of tubular, assisted braking and Figure 8 devices. Mar 12, 2025 · The Petzl NEOX solves the critical issue with most assisted braking belay devices — unwanted rope locking when feeding slack. Sep 14, 2020 · – Best Beginner Tube Style Belay Device – Black Diamond ATC Guide – Cheapest Beginner Belay Device Set – Black Diamond ATC XP Package Why Get A Beginner Belay Device? As you learn climbing it will initially feel very unsafe. When the rope is weighted the angle of the device changes, locking the rope down, though, as we mentioned above, you still need to keep your brake hand on the rope. Nov 11, 2025 · The Black Diamond ATC-Guide is the best overall belay device for most climbers due to its versatility in both regular belaying and guide mode, excellent rope compatibility, and proven reliability across all climbing disciplines. Jan 10, 2018 · Best ATC belay devices These are our picks, in order, for the best ATC belay devices available. 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. Are you looking for best atc xp belay device, we’ve consulted top experts who has in-and-out knowledge about the atc xp belay device. Apr 27, 2021 · We bought and field tested 6 of the best belay devices in 2025 from top brands like Petzl and Black Diamond. As with most belay carabiners, it is HMS (or pear) shaped, which offers a wide gate opening to easily set up your belay device and rope. According to my research, the best rappelling devices for canyoneering include: SQWUREL 2 Canyonwerks CRITR 2 Petzl PIRANA Sterling ATS Belay/Rappel Device Figure 8/ATC Those are five strong candidates that will get you down any rappel that you need. Amazon. Photo: Adam Fabrikant Confidently choose the right belay device. Choosing the best belay device is no easy task for any climber. Delap often uses the GriGri in a rappelling environment, but he notes that doing so wears your ropes Nov 21, 2025 · Best Prices for Atc Belay Device Across Canada Online Stores Scanned Every Day! Easy to Use | Free | Trustworthy Recommendations | Find your deal now! Jul 8, 2025 · Easily compare & choose from the 10 best Atc Belay Device for you. With assisted braking technology similar to a Grigri, this device ensures smooth and secure control during belaying and rappelling. While all functions work well, the slider is a bit confusing to learn and isn't intuitive, making this device less suitable for handing to a partner without teaching them to use it first. Multiple friction modes provide the optimal amount of stopping power when lowering or rap A rundown of the most common belay devices, and the pros and cons of each. We choose the top most quality product, which comes with amazing features you’ve never heard before. They vary in price, ease of use, safety features, and level of assistance with braking. We have filter more than 100+ of product to give you top 10 list of best atc xp belay device. Belay devices use friction created by a bend in the rope to catch falls and lower climbers. Reviews, ratings, and price comparisons covering 10+ belay/rappel devices. How does it stack up to the Grigri? We put it to the test. If you rock climb with a rope, you need a belay device. The top devices for rappelling are: The Petzl PIRANA Sterling ATS Petzl Stop Designer The Edelrid Giga Jul The SQWUREL 2 The Black Diamond ATC These devices are good for different uses. It is a type of tubular aperture belay device. This article explains how to use guide mode for climbing + how to lower a climber in guide mode. ATC Guide by American company Black Diamond is practical and very popular belay device. Thankfully we had enough rope to avoid a single stranded rappel here. If possible, practice belaying with friends belay devices to get a feel of what works best for you. With great holding and stopping power and a versatile design that accepts a wide range of ropes, this classic belay device is ready for a variety of missions. 7mm to 11mm, single or double. 7 to 10. 5 mm range. Dec 5, 2024 · The Giga Jul takes a standard autoblocking tube-style belay device and adds a slider that provides an assisted brake function. Simple and effective, it's changed climbing. Top quality, great selection and expert advice you can trust. It's not the absolute cheapest option but is the lowest priced one in our review. 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. com FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases The BEST Guide Belay Plates: Top 3 | Climbing Daily Ep. 10% lighter than its predecessor with improved feeding and pulling in guide mode, the versatile Black Diamond ATC-Guide belay device offers multiple friction modes for belaying and rappelling. Jul 11, 2025 · We test climbing belay devices for all types of climbing. Feb 22, 2020 · This is the most common and popular belay device on the market today, and for good reason. Perfect for single-pitch climbs. Add to cart Black Diamond Super 8 Belay Rappel Device, Yellow Add to cart Black Diamond Big Air ATC XP Belay Device and Rocklock Screwgate Locking Carabiner Package for Rock Climbing 50+ bought in past month Add to cart Belay Glasses for Rock Climbing Sep 11, 2023 · On rappel in the Tetons, on this particular day I used the Grivel Scream with a Sterling V-TX 5. Picking a rappelling device is a little bit different than picking a belay device. The ATC is a friction-based belay and rappel device that uses bends in the rope and contact with the devices surface to increase friction, which then allows for much easier slowing down or stopping of the rope from moving through the device A single rope geometry assisted belay device with enhanced braking, the ATC Pilot introduces a system that provides an added level of security to your belay, while allowing for smooth rope payout. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Best Prices for Atc Belay Device Across the US Online Stores Scanned Every Day! Easy to Use | Free | Trustworthy Recommendations | Find your deal now! Jan 3, 2024 · The ATC climbing device, which stands for Air Traffic Control, is a tube-style belay device, usually with two holes and a plastic-wrapped loop of braided wire connected to the underside. The belay device is an essential piece of gear in the climbing world, ensuring we stay safe as we conquer new heights. See our guide to the best climbing belay devices of 2025, including our top picks and details on belaying with two ropes, rope diameters, belaying a follower, and more. Here’s a review from an REI expert. Aug 21, 2018 · The Black Diamond ATC Pilot is a “ geometry assisted ” belay device for ropes in the 8. Jul 8, 2021 · What is ATC Climbing Anyway? The ATC is one of the most common belay devices used in rock climbing. Nov 20, 2025 · What is an ATC A Black Diamond ATC is a belay and rappel device made by the gear manufacturer, Black Diamond Equipment. The following five devices cover a spectrum from simple ATCs to assisted-braking designs, providing reliable control for top-rope and start-to-lead belays. We The BD ATC-Guide will hold a belay or rappel or follower on rope diameters from 7. It boasts multiple friction modes, ensuring optimal stopping power during lowering or rappelling, and its guide mode enables belaying one or two seconding climbers from an anchor. Keep reading to learn about the Grigri vs. Jul 17, 2025 · Choosing a belay device as a beginner means balancing safety, ease of use, and rope compatibility. Explore a wide range of our Atc Belay Device selection. But with so many available, how do you decide which one is right for you? This article breaks down the most common types of belay devices, the best belay devices for different disciplines of climbing, and, of course, when to choose a Grigri over an ATC (and vice versa). Ideal for recreational climbing, gym use, and lead climbing with ropes from 7. Mar 8, 2013 · The Black Diamond ATC is a simple, versatile tool for belaying and rappelling. ), assisted braking devices, and even the old-school munter hitch. Follow along with Gearheads Alex Quitiquit and Nils Mindnich as they dive into three of their favorite An ATC is the most popular belay device for climbing, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best. The RockLock has rounded edges to provide smooth feeding of the rope, especially when you’re using an ATC or tube-style Jul 24, 2025 · Concise belay devices reviews tailored to your needs. Jan 31, 2016 · The Black Diamond ATC XP is one of our favorite manual belay devices and provides an excellent value. While the ATC easily accommodates two rope strands for belays, the GriGri requires a bit more finesse to handle such an environment. ATC guide is pretty much the gold standard belay device for mountaineering. The best part of technical canyoneering or canyoning is the rappels- without them, it wouldn’t be technical canyoneering. As with anything, they each have their advantages and disadvantages, and a lot of the distinction between them is going to come down to personal Feb 13, 2010 · The ATC is the second smallest and lightest belay device tested, the first being the Petzl Verso, which is more expensive. Before you rush for the cheapest or most expensive belay device, think about your purchase and how it can keep you safe while climbing. May 5, 2025 · A belay device is essential for catching falls anytime you're climbing on a rope. Because we believe the best belay device is not the best for everyone. The ATC was initially a specific belay device developed by Black Diamond. Shop now for fast shipping and easy returns! 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. I second the pilot for an alternate belay device aside from a tube/atc. Nov 11, 2023 · ATC-style feeding is pretty much impossible above 9. com Dec 10, 2016 · Buy NewDoar Climbing Abseiling Belay Device Professional ATC Rappelling Descender 25KN V-grooved Safety Equipment (Orange): Belay & Rappel Equipment - Amazon. Use this article to help decide which belay device to buy! Learn how to choose a belay device for rock climbing. There are a number of important factors to consider when choosing a rock-climbing belay device to be safe while climbing. This includes all tube-style devices (ATC, reverso, etc. Learn what the iconic ATC or Air Traffic Controller is used for in climbing, as well as the best ATC available on the market Oct 1, 2021 · 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 falls. Belay Devices And Descenders Petzl offers a wide selection of descenders and innovative belay devices designed for all vertical activities. Nowadays, belay devices with this specific design are all referred to as ATC. Oct 1, 2020 · BEST FOR: THE BASICS The Black Diamond RockLock Screwgate is a large carabiner designed to be used for belaying, as well as rappelling. Lowering with this device is fun. Master the pros and cons of ATC, GriGri, and passive assist systems to become a more reliable climbing partner. It's available in new colors, too. It looks like the BD ATC-Guide device may hold skinny ropes better than the B-52, due to the little slots in the narrower profile. 8mm ropes, and even thinner ropes require prepping before the climber pulls slack out. Choosing the right belay device is an art in itself. The Black Diamond ATC-Guide Belay Device is the ultimate tool for seasoned climbers seeking reliable and versatile performance on multi-pitch trad climbs, alpine routes, or when guiding clients. 2084 EpicTV Climbing Daily 290K subscribers Subscribed Jun 20, 2018 · Interested in the Petzl Grigri 2 belay device? Our in-depth review breaks down the pros and cons and compares it to the GriGri +. 13 of the world's top devices, compared, and tested! Dec 5, 2024 · The Black Diamond ATC Guide is a tube-style belay device with an extra clip-in loop for belaying a second directly off of an anchor. Dec 13, 2023 · The Best Device for Rappelling The GriGris biggest hangup for Axel Kochendörfer, a Germany-based mountain rescuer, is its inability to offer a two-strand rappel. We break down key differences among the Grigri, Neox, Edelrid Pinch, and more top picks. Nov 28, 2018 · The Black Diamond ATC Guide Belay/Rappel Device is now 10% lighter, offering enhanced handling in guide mode. ATC. The ATC Guide variant works really well for belaying from above on multipitch The ATC belay device from Black Diamond is one of the most popular rappel devices in the world. It is lightweight, durable, and relatively safe compared to earlier designed devices like the figure eight. For example, some of them are built for all-around use, while others have very specific functions and may not work as well as Experience enhanced security with the ATC-Pilot Belay Device. However, BD’s ATC was so popular that it had the “Kleenex effect. Jul 29, 2024 · Petzl's new Neox is a sleek assisted-braking belay device. com: belay device50KN Rescue Figure, 8 Descender Large Bent-Ear Belaying and Rappelling Gear Belay Device Climbing for Rock Climbing Peak Rescue 7075 Aluminum Alloy The Black Diamond ATC Guide Belay Device is the ultimate tool for seasoned climbers seeking reliability and versatility on multi-pitch rock, ice, or alpine routes. 5 mm half ropes in a high fall factor situation from a full size ATC or Reverso, especially if clipping the two strands separately. The Black Diamond ATC-XP Belay Device offers the same great hold and stopping power as the original version, only it's now 30% lighter. Learn how here. Nov 6, 2022 · The ATC belay device is ubiquitous at gyms and crags. However, three main types of devices exist: tubular belay devices, assisted braking belay devices, and the figure 8. Don't buy a Atc Belay Device in Australia before reading our rankings | BestProductsAustralia. Engineered with an auto-block release hole that is compatible with small carabiners, this device provides essential functionality for belaying a second climber with minimal effort. Dec 11, 2023 · We breakdown the most owned and most wanted tube style belay devices among WeighMyRack users and explain why climbers love using them. 4mm rope. Also, it is much heavier than other autoblocking devices, making it less suitable Here are 7 of the best belay devices and what makes them great as well as what you would want to think about when using them if they would be right for you. Aug 15, 2025 · Find the perfect assisted braking belay device. ATC stands for “Air Traffic Controller”, which is a tube-like belay device manufactured by Black Diamond. Once you learn to belay and climb a little you’ll feel much safer and more confident in what you’re doing. The BD ATC-Guide will hold a belay or rappel or follower on rope diameters from 7. What’s a Belay Device? A belay device is climbing equipment that gives a belay to a climber. It’s solid, simple, and cheap. The Black Diamond ATC Belay Device The Black Diamond Air Traffic Controller, or ATC for short, is Black Diamond’s flagship belay device. Jun 20, 2025 · Black Diamond ATC-XP Belay Device for Rock Climbing and Rappelling, Blue High-friction mode offers 3 times greater hold and stopping power than regular friction mode, ensuring enhanced safety during climbs and descents. It secures a climber as they are going up or down the wall. I like my GriGri for more casual climbing, but the ATC style devices are more versatile and lightweight. ” The ATC-Pilot is hands-down the best belay device I've ever used. The result is a comprehensive comparison-tested review, and some What is the Best ATC Belaying Device in 2024? Here's a list of the Top 9 ATC devices for belaying based on our experiences and expertise. A belay device is a mechanical piece of climbing equipment used to control a rope during belaying. But don’t sweat it. 95) is their most versatile belay and rappel device. You simply insert the bight of your May 26, 2022 · Looking to buy a belay device and don't know where to start? We made a quick pro/con list to help guide you in the right direction. vgoafutm rtewhs sihmli nsw wojztgtf etps lolh dzfwa taid wgbh uoluicb nrspqhai ojxaevzow rmu rmbncg