Best atc belay device for beginners. Learn how to choose a belay device for rock climbing.

Best atc belay device for beginners You’ll be able to walk into a gear shop with confidence and choose the right tool to keep you and your climbing buddies safe. Our top picks are those that are readily-available in the United States and have received the highest overall ratings from reviewers. Dec 16, 2022 · Instead, it’s figuring out which belay device is best amongst the myriad of belay devices on the market. com One of the first skills you need to master once you start climbing is how to belay. Suggestions on first belay device? Hi guys, I've begun buying my own equipment (I was renting before due to lack of funds) and now I am browsing for a belay device. Mar 16, 2022 · Belaying may be the most critical skill you need to participate in the sport of rock climbing safely. Aug 15, 2025 · Find the perfect assisted braking belay device. 95) is their most versatile belay and rappel device. Here are 7 of the best belay devices and what makes them great as well as what you would want to think about when using them if they would be right for you. Mar 9, 2021 · Pull Out Your Belay Device I’m going to teach you how to rappel with an ATC, since that’s what I personally recommend, and it tends to be the most widely used device for this activity. This Instructable is for reference purposes only, and is not meant to replace in- person training from a rock climbing professional. If you rock climb with a rope, you need a belay device. May 29, 2025 · By the end of this post, you’ll know how to pick the perfect belay device. Find out how to pick the right one, use it safely, and keep it in top condition for your climbing trips. The original ATC works well with rock climbing ropes 10mm and larger, while the Black Diamond ATC-XP better handles the smaller ropes used for ice climbing and canyoneering. Included: Rappelling gear list, what is rappelling, rappelling styles and more! Sep 9, 2024 · Belay Device Comparison: Selecting for Your Climbing Style Choosing the right belay device is key, especially when you think about your climbing style and level. 571 EpicTV Climbing Daily 289K subscribers Subscribed The Best Belay Device for Beginners How to Choose a Belay or Rappel Device Belay Device Types The most common belay devicesBeB fall into one of two categories: Assisted-braking devices, which arrest climbing falls by “grabbing” the rope like a locking seatbelt, and tube-style devices, which use friction alone to catch a fall. We can be confident of that Nov 21, 2017 · Searching for the best belay devices? See the top-rated of 2024, pros, cons, features, plus all you need to know about the best options available. 5 mm range. It's not the absolute cheapest option but is the lowest priced one in our review. Feel safer and belay better with our top picks. In climbing, a belayer holds a lead climber’s rope and feeds it out as the leader advances upward. The thing is that many people, especially the uh purists…didn’t like the idea of relying purely on a camming mechanism to catch their full. While the ATC easily accommodates two rope strands for belays, the GriGri requires a bit more finesse to handle such an environment. For beginners, the Petzl GriGri+ is a top pick. It comes with anti-panic features to lower the chance of dropping someone while lowering them. Yes. The black diamond atc provides lightweight and durable belaying and rappelling performance Now 30% lighter than the original thanks to an updated construction and machined windows through the body, the Black Diamond ATC-XP Belay Device is a durable, versatile belay device that features multiple friction modes to handle nearly any situation or rope diameter. Jul 17, 2025 · Choosing a belay device as a beginner means balancing safety, ease of use, and rope compatibility. Keep reading to learn about belay devices and how to pick the right one based on your climbing experience and the style of climbing you enjoy. Choosing the best belay device is no easy task for any climber. Learn to belay a lead climber, including how it differs from top-rope belaying. The best device for newcomers should be user-friendly, safe, and versatile. Knowing which belay device to use for every occasion and how to operate the device properly is key for safety and success when it comes to climbing ropes. When belaying the same technique for "taking in" that is used with an ATC or similar device is used, however in the event of a fall instead of having to "lock off the device" the belay does nothing and the device locks by itself. Explore durable climbing belay & rappel devices from Black Diamond to gear up for your next descent. As a beginner, there are a tonne of varied and confusing options out there for every bit of gear you need. Nov 24, 2024 · This is the like the Facebook to Myspace of belay devices. Say goodbye to gear jitters and hello to smooth, controlled descents. Black Diamond ATC Guide The Black Diamond ATC Guide (MSRP: $29. I like the ATC Guide for trad, multipitch, climbing with Overall, the Black Diamond ATC Sport Belay Device – Black is a great piece of climbing gear for both the beginner and experienced climber and I would highly recommend it. Don't buy a Atc Belay Device in the US before reading our rankings | bestchoice. Products like the Black Diamond ATC-Guide Belay Device, Petzl Grigri+ Belay Device, and Petzl I’D S Self-Braking Rope Descender offer a range of options to suit different needs and preferences. However, it does have drawbacks like Jul 23, 2004 · Any simple belay device that is relatively foolproof to set up (an ATC will work whichever way the ropes go through) would be good. Dec 22, 2022 · However, which device is best for you is much less clear. With auto-locking belay devices such as the Grigri now more common than ever, it is tempting to use one of these early on in the belief that it If you already own an ATC just learn how to use it, it’s a fine device. Jul 11, 2018 · The ATC Pilot is incredibly intuitive to use, especially for climbers who already have experience using belay devices. As with anything, they each have their advantages and disadvantages, and a lot of the distinction between them is going to come down to personal Aug 6, 2021 · Not sure which belay device to get? We tested the Petzl GriGri 2 and Black Diamond ATC side-by-side to help you know which is right for you. What is the Best Belay Device for Beginners? Choosing the right belay device is crucial for beginners in rock climbing. “To belay” is a term with nautical origins that involves securing a rope around another object, for example, a cleat, to stop it from moving. Otherwise just get an Grigri and quit sucking the dicks of the safety brigade. Jun 20, 2018 · Interested in the Petzl Grigri 2 belay device? Our in-depth review breaks down the pros and cons and compares it to the GriGri +. com Jul 11, 2025 · We test climbing belay devices for all types of climbing. When the rope is weighted the angle of the device changes, locking the rope down, though, as we mentioned above, you still need to keep your brake hand on the rope. The pilot wont let you rappel. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or just starting out, finding the perfect belay device is crucial for a successful climbing experience. Black Diamond ATC-Guide Nov 3, 2022 · #Tags:- climbing training,Petzl GRIGRI Belay Device,best belay device for indoor climbing,best belay device for beginners,best belay device 2022,grigri belay device,assisted braking belay device The reverso is made for multipitch climbing. For example, some of them are built for all-around use, while others have very specific functions and may not work as well as Any simple belay device that is relatively foolproof to set up (an ATC will work whichever way the ropes go through) would be good. From cam-assisted blocking systems that arrest a fall to simple ATC-style devices that excel in long descents, these 10% lighter than its predecessor with improved feeding and pulling in guide mode, the versatile Black Diamond ATC-Guide belay device offers multiple friction modes for belaying and rappelling. Feb 22, 2020 · The belay device you choose to use will depend on personal preference and the type of climbing you do. What’s a Belay Device? A belay device is climbing equipment that gives a belay to a climber. Shop our ATC Guide, ATC XP & more belaying & rappelling gear. ATC. Feb 22, 2020 · Belaying is an often overlooked, but essential skill to safe climbing, we share how to belay when climbing safely for top roping and lead climbing. May 3, 2025 · Looking for the best belay device? Explore top-rated options for beginners and pros, with tips on assisted braking, safety features, and gear compatibility to match your climbing style. As a beginner climber, I bought the cheapest gear on the market and it worked for me. ATC guide is pretty much the gold standard belay device for mountaineering. Sep 8, 2015 · When you're just starting out climbing, choosing your first belay device can be a tricky task but it's also an extremely important one as learning good belay technique from the outset will help to keep you and your partners safe further down the line. 2024 Climb Guide Harnesses, Ropes, Pro, Pads, Shoes & More Explore Jan 11, 2018 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. While many novice canyoneers start out with simple belay or rappel devices like an ATC or an 8-ring, these elementary options won’t meet the needs of more advanced canyoneers. Read our four top picks for the best belay carabiner and treat your partner to a deluxe belay! Stoked for climbing season? Let’s chat belay devices. Keep reading to learn about the Grigri vs. Aug 21, 2018 · The Black Diamond ATC Pilot is a “ geometry assisted ” belay device for ropes in the 8. Check out the video to find out which was our pick for best of the bunch. The ATC was initially a specific belay device developed by Black Diamond. The ATC XP is designed in the classic tube shape but with a pair of toothed grooves on one side for greater friction. Sep 15, 2020 · A dedicated belay biner can make a world of difference. Keep reading to find out what are the best belay devices you can get this year. We explain the different types there is and offer a description of every belay device we stock. However, if you know how to belay and you are ready to purchase your own device or your second device, you may also be looking for added peace of mind from a device that has extra safety features. In this article, we will focus on Black Diamond Belay Device especially the tubular. Simple and effective, it's changed climbing. Nowadays, belay devices with this specific design are all referred to as ATC. 7 to 10. It is the basis for a relationship of absolute trust between climber and belayer, because the belayer, literally, holds the climber’s life in their hands. I find myself reaching for the Grigri when i know my friends are going to top-dog 5. I like my GriGri for more casual climbing, but the ATC style devices are more versatile and lightweight. According to BD, these grooves offer three times more stopping power than the smooth-sided Feb 9, 2020 · How to belay properly is the most essential skill in climbing, because catching a fall well hinges entirely on the belayer. The black diamond belay device for beginners works great, It is perfect for gym climbing and has a minimalist design. Oct 9, 2025 · Get ready to climb safer and smarter with the Black Diamond Big Air ATC XP Belay Device and Rocklock Screwgate Locking Carabiner Package. Here are our best belay device picks! See our guide to the best climbing belay devices of 2025, including our top picks and details on belaying with two ropes, rope diameters, belaying a follower, and more. What Is The Best Belay Device For Beginners? | EpicTV Climbing Daily, Ep. The Black Diamond ATC Belay Device The Black Diamond Air Traffic Controller, or ATC for short, is Black Diamond’s flagship belay device. So, if you would like to know how to choose the best belay device for you, then keep For lead climbing, a Grigri is more difficult to use correctly than an ATC; for top-rope climbing, the opposite is true. 1 day ago · Easily compare & choose from the best Atc Belay Device for you. Sep 30, 2022 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Jul 17, 2025 · Climbing demands reliable belay devices to maintain control, safety, and confidence on every route. The best part of technical canyoneering or canyoning is the rappels- without them, it wouldn’t be technical canyoneering. Follow along with Gearheads Alex Quitiquit and Nils Mindnich as they dive into three of their favorite Apr 28, 2025 · Here are some tips and the best method for giving a good toprope belay, whether you’re using a tube device like an ATC or a brake-assisted belay device like the grigri. A comparison of the ATC XP to other popular belay devices like the GriGri and the ATC Guide. This guide highlights five top-rated belay devices often purchased on Amazon, chosen for performance, ease of use, and versatility across sport, trad, and top-rope climbing. If we do our job correctly, by the end of this article, you’ll know which belay device is best for you. The anti-panic handle feature isn't hard to get used to, nor is the way you feed slack quickly. So, are you ready to become a belay device expert? Let’s get started! May 7, 2025 · The best belay devices offer enhanced control and braking assistance, crucial for both experienced climbers and those just starting out. This way, you can be confident Dec 13, 2023 · The Best Device for Rappelling The GriGris biggest hangup for Axel Kochendörfer, a Germany-based mountain rescuer, is its inability to offer a two-strand rappel. I've used both grigri and atc and I like them both but I don't know which one is better to have as a first. But how do you choose this gear wisely when you're new to the sport? That’s why at Glisshop, we’re here to help you select your PPE and climbing gear. Oct 25, 2019 · Choosing the best belay device can be very difficult. The following five devices cover a spectrum from simple ATCs to assisted-braking designs, providing reliable control for top-rope and start-to-lead belays. May 26, 2022 · Looking to buy a belay device and don't know where to start? We made a quick pro/con list to help guide you in the right direction. Don't buy a belay device before reading these reviews. There are so many belay devices available out there. May 19, 2025 · One essential piece of equipment that every climber needs is a reliable belay device. Belay solutions come in various types and designs, each offering unique features and benefits. Mar 8, 2013 · The Black Diamond ATC is a simple, versatile tool for belaying and rappelling. While belaying may seem straightforward, there are a lot of ways a belayer can make a climber feel safe and secure Mar 4, 2019 · With that in mind, we've lined up three great options: the Black Diamond ATC Sport belay device, the Petzl Verso belay device and the Black Diamond ATC XP belay device. Feb 6, 2023 · Buy on Amazon The Black Diamond Belay Device For Beginner s is specially designed for your daily usage and has all the useful features. Discover the top belay devices designed to enhance safety and convenience for both beginner and experienced climbers, as featured in this informative roundup article. It is used in the same way as traditional tube-style devices, meaning that it is very user friendly and a great introduction into the realm of assisted belay devices. Aug 5, 2022 · The best rock climbing gear for beginners, including climbing shoes, climbing harnesses, belay devices, climbing helmets, and climbing apparel, from brands like La Sportiva, Petzl, Black Diamond According to my research, the best rappelling devices for canyoneering include: SQWUREL 2 Canyonwerks CRITR 2 Petzl PIRANA Sterling ATS Belay/Rappel Device Figure 8/ATC Those are five strong candidates that will get you down any rappel that you need. Aug 28, 2021 · My belay device of choice for multi-pitch climbing is the ATC Guide, for its lightness, simplicity, and versatility. We cover gear, setup, safety, communication and technique. Jan 15, 2018 · The new Black Diamond ATC Pilot is a lightweight assisted braking belay device for single-pitch climbs. I like to think I'm skilled with all of them. This awesome set from Black Diamond, a company that’s been making top-notch climbing gear since 1957, is built for adventure. Others have their preferences for similar designs from other brands, but I am pretty confident more mountains have been climbed with the ATC guide than any other. When you use the same device consistently, you become intimately familiar with its nuances and performance characteristics. Best Belay Device For Beginners – 4 Safe + Easy To Use Options April 25, 2022September 14, 2020 Jul 24, 2025 · While correct belay technique is essential, having the best belay device for your needs definitely helps. . Whether you are a gym climber, trad climber, sport climber, alpine climber or all of the above, our goal here at The Adventure Junkies is to help you pick the best belay device and get you one step closer to your next adventure. The smart, ATC-pilot, Giga/Mega Jul and so on are all fine choices too, but GriGris are the most popular assisted braking device so others will be familiar with The ATC is a dynamic belay device. Then came the idea of assisted braking devices. Make sure this fits by entering your model number. Are there situations when other options can be useful? Explore the different types of belay devices and learn what suits you best with our buying guide. There isn't anything on the market that remotely comes close to the ease of use for lead belay. Jul 26, 2024 · This buying guide offers advice for anyone wanting to purchase a new belay device, or add to their existing collection. 7mm to 11mm) and its overall performance. We break down key differences among the Grigri, Neox, Edelrid Pinch, and more top picks. In this article, we will review the top five belay solutions for beginners, helping you choose the one that suits your needs and ensures a safe climbing experience. Delap often uses the GriGri in a rappelling environment, but he notes that doing so wears your ropes Dec 2, 2024 · That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 11 best belay devices currently available, along with a buying guide to help you make an informed decision. Here are our in-depth reviews. It has assisted braking but it probably isn't one of the top 3 the assisted braking devices on the market. See full list on outdoorgearlab. But with so many available, how do you decide which one is right for you? This article breaks down the most common types of belay devices, the best belay devices for different disciplines of climbing, and, of course, when to choose a Grigri over an ATC (and vice versa). With it you can belay on top rope and lead in sport and trad climbing, as well as rappel from the top of a route. As long as you are properly belaying, then any brand new belay device should work for you too. Includes the pros and cons of tubular, assisted braking and Figure 8 devices. In this post, we'll demystify the various types of belay devices, explain how they work, and even share some insider tips on picking the perfect one for your next thrilling ascent. 6 at the gym a dozen times or for use as a backup self belay device to quickly switch over to rappel. Jan 10, 2018 · Best ATC belay devices These are our picks, in order, for the best ATC belay devices available. Get ready to elevate your climbing adventures! Jan 3, 2024 · The ATC climbing device, which stands for Air Traffic Control, is a tube-style belay device, usually with two holes and a plastic-wrapped loop of braided wire connected to the underside. Learn how to choose a belay device for rock climbing. Nov 11, 2025 · The Black Diamond ATC-Guide is the best overall belay device for most climbers due to its versatility in both regular belaying and guide mode, excellent rope compatibility, and proven reliability across all climbing disciplines. Will be weird to belay from the top with. The advantage of a STitch Plate with a spring is that is it easier to release after tension, but works well during normal rope passage as the spring reduces the chance for rope jamming. In the event of a fall, expected or unexpected Oct 1, 2021 · The ATC is a belay device used by a person on the ground – the belayer – to manage the rope attached to the climber and catch falls. There are three ways to belay from above: Off the harness Through a redirect Off the anchor itself Belaying off the anchor is almost always the best option. How does it work? How is the rope inserted? How do brake hand and guide hand work together for taking up or paying out rope? Picking a rappelling device is a little bit different than picking a belay device. Here’s a review from an REI expert. Sep 21, 2023 · After months of testing, our avid rock climber and resident expert found the best climbing belay devices of 2023. What Does ATC Stand For In Climbing? ATC stands for Air Traffic Controller. You’ll understand the different types, their pros and cons, and which one is best for you. How to choose a belay device? When you start climbing, it's essential to get some basic equipment for beginners such as a harness, a pair of climbing shoes, a good helmet, a locking carabiner and a descender. Oct 1, 2021 · Our team of experts has selected the best belay devices out of hundreds of models. Jan 31, 2016 · The Black Diamond ATC XP is one of our favorite manual belay devices and provides an excellent value. I own an ATC-XP, ATC-Guide, springless Sticht plate, GriGri, CT-Alpine Up, a chain link and various homemade belay devices. First, we saw the tubular devices laying some solid foundations for belay devices futures. Sep 19, 2023 · In summary, when choosing a Descender device for abseiling, it is important to consider factors such as type, specific features, and compatibility with various rope diameters. Here's a list of the Top 9 ATC devices for belaying based on our experiences and expertise. Aug 23, 2020 · I'd go with any GriGri device, I have the plus myself and an ATC guide for 3 partner situations, double rope belays and double strand raps. Any tube style belay device will do the trick, though, and I suggest you use one with teeth to add more friction to the rope as you descend. When it comes to top rope climbing, an Air Traffic Controller (ATC) is one of the most important Apr 27, 2021 · We bought and field tested 6 of the best belay devices in 2025 from top brands like Petzl and Black Diamond. Aug 26, 2025 · In this guide, we will break down the best belay devices for beginners, explain how they work, and help you pick the one that suits your needs and comfort level. Feb 2, 2024 · However many climbers are wondering what’s the best option to add some extra security to your toughest routes? A belay device, but not just any standard one… we only present some of the best belay climbing devices you can possibly find on the market! Nov 6, 2022 · The ATC belay device is ubiquitous at gyms and crags. It is a type of tubular aperture belay device. How to Belay With an ATC Belay Device: Pull, Brake, Under, Slide! Belaying is fun, but dangerous. Black Diamond Belay Device Reviews There are different belay devices in the rock climbing world and if you are a beginner you may wonder where to start? Even as an intermediate climber, I am still learning the different belay devices available and how to use them effectively. It has multiple friction modes to let you determine your needs when belaying different climbers. Dec 11, 2020 · A complete guide to all things rappelling gear. It has since become so popular and its design has been replicated by other brands. The top devices for rappelling are: The Petzl PIRANA Sterling ATS Petzl Stop Designer The Edelrid Giga Jul The SQWUREL 2 The Black Diamond ATC These devices are good for different uses. The ATC-Pilot is hands-down the best belay device I've ever used. Feb 12, 2024 · When looking for a rappel device for your next climb, be sure to consult this list. How we choose: The best belay/rappel devices highlighted here were selected based on 54 reviews of 29 products. It’s got the grip, the versatility, and the reliability you need to scale those heights with confidence. In this REI Expert Advice video, we show you how to prepare to belay, perform a safety check, belay with the Add to cart Black Diamond Super 8 Belay Rappel Device, Yellow Add to cart Black Diamond Big Air ATC XP Belay Device and Rocklock Screwgate Locking Carabiner Package for Rock Climbing 50+ bought in past month Add to cart Belay Glasses for Rock Climbing Jan 4, 2024 · We break down every type of belay device and talk about where belaying started, and talk about which devices work best for your style of climbing. This Tech Tip is about using the ATC-XP. Sep 14, 2020 · Getting the right belay device as a beginner climber can make a world of difference as you learn the ropes. They are well-known for the Jun 12, 2024 · Meet your new best belay buddy: the Black Diamond ATC-XP! Whether you’re a climbing newbie or a seasoned pro, this belay device is here to boost your game. It functions as a tube device when belaying, and then allows you to belay up a partner in guide mode from the top, and it allows you rappel. Here are some top recommendations: What Is An ATC? ATC stands for Air Traffic Controller. Discussion on its rope diameter compatibility (7. twiuo ppsh dwi dercp wkskce dimfi azhk vvfo ifv zvtdcj pjwrza ydtwe uqfype zvdijl aff