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Topic Date User

Use of the Black Diamond ATC vs OTHERS 21-Jun-2008 At 4:03:55 PM pomyrocks

Message

Hi Folks, I have a question regarding belay devices.

My current belay device is a basic BD atc and I have got to the point where I decided that I needed more options / features as my climbing was perhaps beginning to over take the capabilities of the atc.

So.....I upgraded to an ATC Guide. See pic below

Now the thing is, I understand the basic use of the device but what I’m really looking for answers as to what everyone thinks of the extended features that this device offers i.e. grooves edges / more stopping power, the guide mode, the so called extra hole bit at the front which I guess is for abseiling / lowering off, the setup and use if said device in a hanging belay.

What is the people’s opinion on this one?

Belaying?

Abseiling?

Weight issue compared to other devices of a similar nature i.e. Petzl reverso 3 – issue or not?

The guide mode. Good feature of gimmick?

using said device attched to ones harness / or belaying from anchor points

My current rope is 10.5mm but my research indicates that I may struggle with this width rope which tells me that perhaps I need to buy 9.5mm (I had been thinking about retiring the old rope to gym use only and getting myself another which would be not quite so heavy) for the outdoor stuff

My other choice had been the ATC XP but I got a free upgrade due to mistake by the seller when making the purchase blah, blah ..........but that’s another story. Should I sell the guide and go back the XP or stick with what I got??

Yours wonderingly

JT.

P.S - the nearest thing I can find to this is the Petzl Reverso and there is a video explaining the device and its merits (actually there is 2 so watch both). I have watched this video countless times but now I need the voice of others (see link below for video)

http://en.petzl.com/petzl/SportProduits?Produit=653