Carabiners & Quickdraws

CARABINERS

Do not load a carabiner over an edge. Loaded in this manner, biners can fail at a much lower load than their rated strength.

Do not load ANY carabiner across its gate. Minor axis loading is the weakest orientation of most biners.

Warning: Do not allow the rope to run against the sleeve of a locking carabiner. The rope's movement could potentially open the locking mechanism and alllow the gate to open.

All locking mechanisms can be inadvertantly opened or loosened. Always check that your locking carabiner is still locked.

In certain situations a carabiner gate can open accidentally. Rock protrusions can open a cara-biner gate, whiplash from a sudden impact can cause gate opening, and wear and tear can cause a gate to stick open.

Open carabiners pose a significant hazard to a climber because they are not as strong as when the gate is closed.

Try to envision how every carabiner you use will be affected in the event of a fall and place it accordingly. Think ahead.

Always read instructions and warnings that accompany your gear.

Seek qualified professional instruction.