Carabiners

Carabiners, often shortened to “biners” by climbers, are D-shaped metal clips with a spring-loaded gate that act as the workhorses of climbing safety. They are crucial for connecting ropes, slings, and other climbing gear to create a secure system. Here’s a breakdown of key features:

• Function: Carabiners provide quick and reversible connections for various climbing applications.
• Strength and Safety: Climbing carabiners are rigorously tested and rated to withstand immense loads (usually over 20 kN, which translates to roughly 4,500 lbs of force). They are a vital link in the safety chain.
• Types: Different carabiner shapes and gate mechanisms serve specific purposes. Some common types include:
  • Locking Carabiner: Features a screw-gate or twist-lock mechanism for maximum security, ideal for critical connections.
  • Non-Locking Carabiner: Easier to clip and unclip with a spring-loaded gate, but requires extra attention to ensure it stays closed.