FAQ
Gate check, question by question
Pick a topic. Every answer below is written by the people who draw the clips.
Strength
- How strong is a 25kN carabiner?
- 25 kilonewtons is roughly 5,621 lb along the spine with the gate closed. That is a breaking strength measured in testing, not a load you should ever aim for.
- Which of your clips can hold a climber?
- Only the UIAA certified 25kN D carabiners: the twist-lock keylock, the 4 inch auto-lock and the screwgate. Every other clip we make is sold for everyday use and marked not for climbing.
- What happens if a carabiner is cross-loaded?
- Loaded across the gate, our climbing clips are rated 7kN instead of 25kN. Turn the carabiner so the load sits on the long spine.
- Is 12kN enough for a hammock?
- Yes. 12kN is around 2,698 lb, many times the weight of a hammock and the person in it. Use a locking clip and load it the long way.
Locking
- Twist-lock or screw-lock, what is the real difference?
- A twist-lock sleeve springs back and locks every time the gate shuts. A screw-lock sleeve stays wherever you turn it. One saves time, the other never unlocks by accident.
- My screw sleeve will not turn after a heavy load.
- It happens when the gate is squeezed under load. Take the weight off and the sleeve frees up. Next time, back it off a fraction after screwing it home.
- Why doesn't a wiregate lock?
- It is designed for speed. The stainless wire snaps shut on its own, which is perfect for bags and keys but not for anything that must never come off.
Looks and packs
- Does colour change the strength?
- No. Every colour is anodised onto the same forged 7075 body.
- Why does my speckled clip look different from the photo?
- The splatter finish is sprayed by hand, so each carabiner comes out slightly different.
- What is in a rainbow pack?
- One clip in each colour of that line, identical in every other way.
Care
- How do I clean a carabiner?
- Warm water, a soft brush, then let it dry fully. After salt water or sand, rinse the gate and spring well.
- When should I retire a climbing carabiner?
- After a hard drop onto rock or concrete, if you see a sharp groove, a crack or a bend, or if the gate no longer closes by itself.
Buying
- Where do I actually buy?
- The price stamp on each page opens that exact clip at our partner store, where you pick the pack and check out.
- Why is there no price guarantee here?
- Prices move at the partner store. The stamp always shows the price of the moment.
- Who handles returns?
- The partner store, from your order page. See our page on sending a clip back.
Still unsure? Ask the belay station or read how to read a rating.