A belay device needs to be added to your gear, especially when you are rappelling down from a mountain or climbing section. The belay device will take up the rope’s slack to keep it solid and ensure that you don’t fall. Since many people don’t know about these devices, we have seen people asking, “What are the auto-belay device for rock climbing?”
The belay device is designed to connect to the rope of the gear, and it will focus on taking most of the slack. Once it takes some of the slack, you can carefully rappel down any mountain, and you don’t need to worry about falling. Generally, these are controlled by the trainer when you are climbing in a gym.
In the following article, we will look at the auto-belay device, and you can find some of the important features and things that will allow you to determine which of them are ideal for your needs. We have also isolated a few of these devices, which means you don’t need to go searching for them when you can find the best auto belay devices right here.
What Is An Auto Belay Device?
An auto-belay device is something that people, especially beginners, ignore. While it is not as important for pure climbers, it is important to descend from the mountain. The climber often controls the belay device to reduce the rope’s slack and make it more secure to hold their weight when rock climbing.
However, the auto-belay device will automatically detect the rope’s slack and tighten the rope to ensure that you don’t have to deal with the slack. It makes it possible to control the descending process and allow you to rappel more comfortably. Having one of these devices will make it more secure and safer to descend.
What Do You Need To Look For When Buying An Auto Belay Device?
Before jump into the top auto belay devices, it is important to ensure that you understand the different features that make these devices work. We have selected some important features that we have also used to select the top options. Here are a few of the top features to ensure you get value for your money:
Braking Technology
These devices can brake on their own. However, some of the braking devices are slightly better than the others. We have selected a few of the braking methods for you to consider, and these braking methods will make it possible to ensure safety.
- Magnetic: The magnetic device is ideal for fast belaying, and it comprises two magnets that will connect to slow down the process.
- Friction Braking: Most of these devices have friction braking, which forces the unit to brake as it gains more speed.
- Hydraulic: As the name indicates, it is the use of a hydraulic system that will brake as you belay. However, there is a chance of hydraulic fluid leaking.
You must find the right belay device with a braking mechanism that you feel the most comfortable using. These might vary in price, but friction braking seems to be the best option for most situations.
Auto-Belay Type
There are two different belay types you also need to consider. The modular belay device is great for versatility, and these devices are smaller and can be connected to any climbing wall and removed once you are done. Alternatively, the stationary belay device is slightly larger, and they are fixed to specific walls. These devices are also slightly more expensive.
Retraction Speed
It is important to have the best retraction speed that you can control. Many of these devices have a fixed belay speed. However, it is much better to have one that can be adjusted. You want to control the device’s retraction speed to ensure that you are always in control, and they will make it possible to retract much faster.
Top 5 Auto-Belay Devices
Once you have considered the different features, you must consider the top options. To save you some time and to make sure that you don’t need to spend a lot of time finding the right one, we have determined this for you. Here are some of the top options on the market today:
PETZL Grigri Assisted Braking Belay Device
Where to Get It – Check it out on Amazon
Pros:
- Easy to set up
- Assisted braking
- Affordable
- Lightweight
Cons:
- No cons
Bottom Line: The PETZL Grigri Assisted Braking Belay Device is one of the easiest units you can use, and it is a stylish device that will automatically stop you when you are descending too fast. It is one of the best options to consider.
OmniProGear TRUBLUE XL Auto Belay self-regulating Magnetic Braking System
Where to Get It – Check it out on Amazon
Pros:
- Comfortable descent
- Easy to mount
- Assisted braking
- The best option for most people
Cons:
- Expensive
Bottom Line: The OmniProGear TRUBLUE XL Auto Belay self-regulating Magnetic Braking System is one of the best options on the market today. It is a lightweight option, and it is comfortable for most people. However, it can be costly.
Malta Dynamics 100′ Warthog Series Cable Self-Retracting Lifeline
Where to Get It – Check it out on Amazon
Pros:
- Easy to mount
- Assisted braking
- Fixed design
- ANSI certified
Cons:
- Price:
Bottom Line: The Malta Dynamics 100′ Warthog Series Cable Self-Retracting Lifeline is one of the stationary options on the market today. It is made from durable materials, and the assisted braking will ensure that the unit is great for belaying.
Malta Dynamics Razorback 20′ Heavy-Duty Cable Self-Retracting Lifeline
Where to Get It – Check it out on Amazon
Pros:
- Made from durable aluminum
- Holds 310-pounds
- OSHA compliant
- ANSI compliant
Cons:
- No cons
Bottom Line: When you look at the Malta Dynamics Razorback 20′ Heavy-Duty Cable Self-Retracting Lifeline, you will notice that it is one of the lightest options on the market today. It is a modular system that can be adjusted. We would recommend it for those who are on a tight budget.
Guardian Fall Protection 42001 Velocity Cable
Where to Get It – Check it out on Amazon
Pros:
- Small and compact
- Easy to use
- Modular design
- Affordable
Cons:
- Not for heavy users
Bottom Line: The Guardian Fall Protection 42001 Velocity Cable is one of the top entry-level options on the market today. It is a state-of-the-art product, and it will make it possible for you to ensure you can easily rappel.
Auto-Belay Device For Rock Climbing Summary
You will need to have a top auto-belay option to ensure safety and ensure that you are safe when you are rappelling. The above-mentioned options are some of the best, and you can use the features to help you find different options. Let us know in the comment section if we have missed any other of your favorites.
Need Gear for Your Rock Climbing Trip?
If you are planning a rock climbing adventure, you want to make sure that you have the right gear. Check out our beginners guide for rock climbing equipment.