Black Diamond have combined the ATC Pilot belay device with the perfect belay carabiner, the Gridlock. This combination provides safe, secure and smooth bealying for single ropes on single pitch climbs making it perfect for working trad routes or thrashing around at the climbing wall.
Black Diamond ATC Pilot:
The brand new Black Diamond ATC Pilot takes the classic belay device and adds extra security in the case of a fall and super smooth, fine controlled rope pay out for your lead climber. Black Diamonds belay devices are all called ATC, which stands for Air Traffic Controller, so this new Pilot adds control and security to the function. Whilst Black Diamond actively avoid using the word "locking", the new Pilot does have the ability to "stop" the rope even if you have unintentionally let go of the control rope, which is obviously something that you should never do when belaying.
The main rope control area of the Pilot is made from 17/4 Stainless Steel so it's super durable and wont rust and the lower part is made from a mix of nylon and plastic for grip and ergonomic comfort without sacrificing strength. You'll have probably noticed the large hook shape to the top of the Pilot, this is designed to catch your thumb to "unlock" the device as you slide your hand up the control rope when playing out slack for your lead climber. This is a totally intuitive movement and makes the Pilot a pleasure to use.
Black Diamonds new ATC Pilot is designed to work best with single ropes on single pitch climbs making it perfect for working trad routes or thrashing around at the climbing wall. Check out the video below where Rob Greenwood from UKC talks through it's use and features.
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Accommodates ropes from 8.7 -11mm
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Added security to single pitch belays
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Smooth rope payout
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Controlled and gradual lowering
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Steel construction
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Ergonomic non-slip surface
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Sinngle rope use
Black Diamond Gridlock Carabiner:
Black Diamond have come up with an ingenious way to eliminate the risk of cross loading, and potential failure, of belay carabiners. The uniquely shaped gate, when closed, captures the belay loop and keeps the carabiner in the optimum loading position. Hot forged with an I beam spine that curves around to create a large rope bearing surface for maximum strength and rope feeding. This brilliant carabiner is so easy and intuitive to use and makes belaying ultra safe.
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Hot-forged construction
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Patent-pending design eliminates cross loading while belaying
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I-beam spine transitions into a rounded, large rope-bearing surface
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Intuitive and easy-to-use design
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Screwgate sleeve