Petzl

Attache Bar Carabiner

A Screwlock carabiner features a threaded sleeve that you can screw down to lock the gate in place. This mechanism prevents accidental opening, ensuring that the carabiner remains securely closed during climbing or mountaineering. This added safety feature is crucial for preventing falls and ensuring a secure connection to your gear.

The Keylock Nose design eliminates the hook or notch typically found on the carabiner's gate. This allows for smoother clipping and unclipping, reducing the chances of snagging on ropes or other gear. This feature enhances usability, making it easier to handle the carabiner, especially in challenging climbing situations.

Major Axis Strength refers to the maximum force (measured in kilonewtons, kN) that a carabiner can withstand when loaded along its strongest axis. This is the direction in which the carabiner is most likely to bear weight during a fall. A higher major axis strength indicates a stronger and more reliable carabiner, which is essential for your safety while climbing.

Minor Axis Strength is the strength of the carabiner when loaded along its weaker axis. This strength is typically lower than the major axis strength, meaning the carabiner is not designed to bear weight in this direction. Understanding this concept helps climbers use the carabiner correctly, ensuring that they are always secured in the safest manner possible.

Cross-loading occurs when a carabiner is loaded in a way that is not aligned with its major axis, often due to improper positioning. This can weaken the carabiner and increase the risk of failure. To avoid cross-loading, ensure that the carabiner is properly oriented when clipped. Features like the ATTACHE BAR are designed to help prevent cross-loading, enhancing your safety during climbing activities.

When choosing a carabiner, consider its major and minor axis strengths, locking mechanism (like Screwlock), and design features (such as Keylock Nose) that enhance usability. Ensure that the carabiner meets the safety standards for your specific climbing activities. Reading product specifications and reviews can also help you make an informed decision tailored to your climbing style and safety requirements.