How to Choose the Right Karabiner for Your Needs

Your Guide to buying the best Karabiners

Overview

Karabiners are an essential tool for climbers, campers, and outdoor adventurers. They provide a secure connection point between two pieces of gear, and are an integral part of rigging systems. This buying guide will provide an overview of the different types of karabiners, their uses, and an explanation of the safety and construction features to consider when buying. With the proper information, you will be able to find the karabiner that best meets your needs.

Key features

  1. Carabiner size: The size of the carabiner determines the strength and weight of the carabiner. Choose the size based on the activity and expected load.
  2. Shape: Carabiners come in different shapes that suit different uses. D-shaped carabiners are great for climbing, while oval carabiners provide better holding power for hammocks and chairs.
  3. Strength: Strength is determined by the amount of load the carabiner can handle without breaking. It is usually measured in kN (kilonewtons).
  4. Weight: The weight of the carabiner affects its usability. Lighter carabiners are great for lighter activities, while heavier carabiners provide more strength for more demanding activities.
  5. Material: Carabiners are made from a variety of materials, such as aluminum, steel, and plastic. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages.
  6. Gate type: There are three types of gates: screw gate, twist-lock, and snap-lock. Each provides different levels of security. Be sure to choose the right one for the activity.
  7. Finish: The finish of a carabiner affects its durability and can help protect against rust and corrosion. Choose the right finish depending on the environment the carabiner will be used in.

See the most popular Karabiners on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Strength: Karabiners are incredibly strong, and can withstand a lot of force and stress. They are made with durable metal alloys and are designed to keep their shape and hold under pressure.
  • Versatility: Karabiners come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them very versatile and suitable for a variety of applications.
  • Lightweight: Karabiners are incredibly lightweight, which makes them easy to carry and use in different situations.
  • Easy to Use: Karabiners feature a simple and intuitive design, making them easy to use even for beginners.
  • Rust Resistant: Karabiners are made from rust resistant materials, making them ideal for outdoor use.

Cons

  • Strength - Karabiners come in different strengths and grades, some of which may not be suitable for certain activities or uses. It’s important to check the specifications to ensure that the karabiner is strong enough for the intended use.
  • Size - Karabiners come in a variety of sizes, so it’s important to choose one that is the right size for the gear or activity. A karabiner that is too small may not be able to hold the weight or load of the gear, while one that is too large may be too bulky or cumbersome to use.
  • Shape - Karabiners come in different shapes and sizes, and some are better suited for certain activities than others. For example, a pear-shaped karabiner is better for belaying, while a D-shaped karabiner is better for holding heavy loads.
  • Locking System - The locking system of a karabiner is important, as this is what keeps the karabiner securely attached to the rope or gear. Not all karabiners have the same locking system, so it’s important to choose one that is appropriate for the activity.
  • Price - Karabiners can vary in price, so it’s important to shop around to find the best deal. Higher-quality karabiners tend to cost more, so it’s important to consider the use and cost when making a purchase.
  • Weight - Karabiners can be quite heavy, so it’s important to consider the weight when choosing one. Heavier karabiners are usually made from thicker, more durable materials, but this also adds to the weight.

Best alternatives

  1. Belay Devices - Used to feed rope out and hold rope while climbing.
  2. Cams - Spring-loaded devices that expand and dig into cracks, providing a safe anchor point.
  3. Carabiner Brakes - Used to provide friction on the rope when rappelling.
  4. Chalk Bags - Cloth bags filled with powdery chalk that climbers use to keep their hands dry.
  5. Daisy Chains - Long nylon daisy chains that are tied together to form a loop and can be used to tie oneself to an anchor or an anchor point.
  6. Ice Axes - Long-handled tools used to climb icy surfaces.
  7. Quickdraws - Two carabiners connected by a short length of webbing or rope.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Harness - a padded climbing belt with adjustable straps designed to be worn around the waist and legs.
  • Locking Carabiner - a U-shaped metal connector with a spring-loaded gate that is used to fasten two components together.
  • Quickdraw - a two-piece metal connector with a carabiner at each end.
  • Rope - a durable, lightweight cord with a looped end used for rappelling and other climbing activities.
  • Belay Device - an adjustable metal device used to control the amount of rope that is released from the harness when climbing.
  • Chalk - a powdered form of magnesium carbonate used to absorb moisture from the hands and improve grip on the rock.
  • Helmet - a protective headgear with a hard outer shell and an adjustable harness.
  • Cams - a specialized climbing device that is placed into cracks or pockets in the rock to provide protection while ascending a wall.
  • Nut Tool - a small metal tool used for removing stuck nuts from climbing routes.
  • Clothing - specialized clothing designed for climbing, such as breathable pants and shirts, and shoes with rubber soles for grip.

Common questions

  1. What types of Karabiners are available?Karabiners come in many different shapes, sizes, and materials, including wiregate, solid gate, locking, and bent gate. The type of karabiner you need will depend on the activity you're using it for and the weight capacity you require.
  2. What are the key considerations for choosing the right Karabiner?When selecting a karabiner, you should consider the intended use, weight capacity, size, material, and gate type. You should also check the product specifications to ensure the karabiner is approved for the activity you plan to use it for.
  3. What is the difference between locking and non-locking Karabiners?Locking karabiners have a locking mechanism, such as a screw gate or twist lock, which prevents the gate from accidentally opening or coming undone. Non-locking karabiners are simpler and often cheaper, but may be easier to open or come undone unintentionally.
  4. What safety standards should I look for?When buying a karabiner, you should look for products that have been tested and certified to industry safety standards. The most common standards are the CE and UIAA, which certify that the karabiner has been rigorously tested for safety and strength.
  5. What other accessories might I need?Depending on the type of activity you plan to use the karabiner for, you may need other items such as a harness, belay device, or rope. Additionally, you may want to consider purchasing a locking carabiner for extra safety.

Trivia

A fun fact about karabiners is that they were used to rescue survivors during the collapse of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. The karabiners were used to secure lines that helped first responders descend from the rooftop to save people trapped on the upper floors of the Twin Towers. The amazing rescue mission was documented in the National Geographic special, Inside 9/11. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.