Opinion on rappel gear

[Tacticalinterve]

I have used a fugure 8 for long time, but wonder what you guys think of this. Tactical use not rec use

http://www.blackdiamondequipment.com/gear/atc.php

[monsterhunter]

Strictly from a mountain/rock climbing point of view: I use it only when belaying a lead climber, or should I have to lower someone down. A friend of mine, who is a regular mountain climber, uses that product for rappeling as his primary tool. He feels it is easier for him to apply the brakes when wearing a full back.

[HOLLiS]

Originally Posted by monsterhunter

Strictly from a mountain/rock climbing point of view: I use it only when belaying a lead climber, or should I have to lower someone down. A friend of mine, who is a regular mountain climber, uses that product for rappeling as his primary tool. He feels it is easier for him to apply the brakes when wearing a full back.

Sort of depends.

Long raps, a reppel racks is better, One can add resistance as the decent. 8's are real popular for less than 150 ft raps.

Everything has pros and cons. The rescue 8's where popular for a long time, until the reppel rack was developed.

For belaying, I like the munter hitch. What is important is to understand how the work, what are their limitations and probably the most important aspects, the principles of reppelling and belaying.

I have used probably used most of them from the Dulfersitz to the reppel rack. They are all good to know.

Some are more for static situations, some are more for dynamic situations.

[Tacticalinterve]

Thanks info was for buddy. I will stick with my old 8 as I dont usually go farther than 100 foot anyway and been happy all these years with figure 8.

Anyone else remember the old single line, just carabiner days with crappy gloves? I think I still have burn marks

[FSU_CJ]

I used an ATC for years. I love 'em..

[Aoresteen]

Originally Posted by Tacticalinterve

Thanks info was for buddy. I will stick with my old 8 as I dont usually go farther than 100 foot anyway and been happy all these years with figure 8.

Anyone else remember the old single line, just carabiner days with crappy gloves? I think I still have burn marks

Check! The last time I burned down a rope was 1983 or so!

[gagners]

ATCs are great for ANY length rappel without kinking the rope, whether it's 50ft or 300ft, which means less kit to carry.

I have used the munter as a belay "device" as well, but you can rig an ATC to be self-locking from the top, allowing you to belay a follow-on climber or lower someone while doing things like prepping for the next pitch, or more tactically, pulling top-side security.