What is a carabiner? It is a metal loop that has a gate that allows you to pass rope in and out of the loop. The gate is usually a spring activated mechanism, but can also be found as a screw on device. Think of a key chain, but must stronger, for rock climbing. In fact, many climbers use carabiners as key chains.
What are carabiners used for? They are a basic foundational piece of climbing. They basically act as your interface with other things you are working with when climbing. This typically is your rope. Ah, but not all carabiners are the same. They come in different types, so let’s consider a few of the common ones.
The standard oval carabiner is the most commonly used as its name would suggest. Because the word oval is used, most people picture a round metal loop. In truth, the oval is more of an elongate circle. Think of an oval race track like the one in Daytona or Indianapolis and you have the idea. Regardless, this is your run of the mill carabiner and will run you $5 a piece or so.
From ovals we go to the D-shaped carabiners. There are a variety of types of d-shaped “biners”, but the all have the general shape where the gated side of the loop is shorter than the non-gated side. This tends to add strength to the biner since most of the weight is focused on the unbroken side of the d-shaped length. It is hard to explain in words, so just trust me or try it.
As mentioned, there are a variety of d-shaped biners that you can use. Each has its benefits and negatives. They tend to be grouped as general, asymmetrical, bent-gate and locking d-shaped biners. Usually, the odder the name, the more they cost. That being said, carabiners shouldn’t really run you more than $20 a piece unless there is something pretty special about the one in question.
Rick Chapo is with NomadJournals.com - makers of rock climbing journals that make great rock climbing gifts.
