Black Diamond
ATC-Pilot
Black Diamond ATC-Pilot
This is a lightweight assisted braking tubular belay device that bridges the gap between standard ATCs and devices with moving parts, like the Grigri. When the climber falls, the Black Diamond ATC-Pilot assists with braking by rotating upwards to lock the rope, which can be easily unlocked by tilting the device downwards using the thumb pad. Whilst belaying a lead climber, this system allows you to use the thumb pad to decrease resistance, enabling you to pay out rope faster and more easily. As something in between a regular ATC and a "moving parts" device like the Grigri, the ATC-Pilot does everything you'd want it to: makes belaying easier and less tiring whilst not being too expensive or bulky.
Tech specs
| WEIGHT | 86 g |
Features
Summary
• Accommodates ropes from 8.7-10.5 mm
• Provides an added level of security to single pitch belays
• Smooth rope payout
• Controlled lowering
• Steel construction
• Ergonomic, non-slip surface
• Single rope use
works as described, very easy to use
It's great to hold due to the plastic material and construction. It could pay out rope smoothly thus it's very suitable to belay the climber at indoor gym. However, due to the single tube, I wouldn't take it outdoors.
A very simple lightweight piece that works perfectly. You can expect a belaying device that is very clear and evident in how to use it technically. Impossible to go wrong with it.
More affordable than the famous grigri and it works as good. It follows the same system most belaying devices do, besides, if you're a begginer like me, this will help you to easily work the rope when helping your climbing partner and in case of panic, the ATC will block itself.
Recommended to all climbing levels.
It takes a little time to get used to it, especially when lowering weight heavier than your own. However, if you watch the epic tv video about this product you will find it most helpful. All in all, really simple but effective device with comparatively lower price to other with the same functions.