UKC

Has anyone got any views on this device as a self belay tool?

Specificley :

a. Do you have to back it up
b. Does it ascend smoothly
c. Any drawbacks/dangers
d. Better alternatives
e. Is there a micro version?

In reply to Daniel Hunter:

No but you'd be unwise not to.

Yes, very if rigged as per the instructions on a lightly weighted rope.

Not very good for working moves/sequences, you can't easily slide back down a few feet. It can pick at the sheath making your rope furry if you're not careful when moving it down.

All have strengths and weaknesses. Basic is a pretty good compromise for doing laps on longer routes.

No idea.

jk

In reply to Daniel Hunter:
>

There is a Petzl Microcender, but it's not recommended for self-belaying.

In reply to Gordon Stainforth: But alot of peple still use it so... I wouldn't do it with wet/icy/dirt ropes thou

Personally I use a basic, backed up with a second rope with a alpine butterfly knot every 2-4 meter when working a route where I'm likely to fall. Otherwise I don't bother. When summer comes I'll probably going to get a micro scender or the bigger version, rescue scender since the basic fusses the rope quite alot.