Black diamond atc xp how to#

Most ATCs have 2 rope slots which allow them to belay half or twin ropes. Rope slots: These are the openings in the belay device to pass the ropes through. Here is a good overview of the different belay devices.įrame: This is the main body of the belay device. There are many other belay devices apart from those mentioned here. Unlike the other ATC variety which have 2 rope slots, the ATC Sport only has 1 rope slot. The Black Diamond ATC Sport is another type of tubular aperture belay device. In this configuration, the ATC is also able to apply a self-braking force on the rope.Īnother common aperture-style self-braking belay device is Petzl’s Reverso. This configuration is referred to as using the “Guide Mode” of the ATC. This is secured directly onto an anchor point for doing a direct belay. The ATC Guide has an additional attachment point. Like the ATC XP, it also has grooves to increase friction for a belay. While the ATC and ATC XP are tubular aperture belay devices, the ATC Guide is an aperture-style self-braking belay device. When the brake strand is used on the side with the grooves, it provides more friction for braking the rope.īlack Diamond has another belay device known as the ATC Guide. Over the years, the design of the ATC has evolved and there are now different variations in the market.īelay devices like the Black Diamond ATC XP have grooves added to one side. Nowadays, belay devices with this specific design are all referred to as ATC. It has since become so popular and its design has been replicated by other brands. The ATC was initially a specific belay device developed by Black Diamond. It is a type of tubular aperture belay device.

Black diamond atc xp how to#

Part 2: How To Pass A Belay Certification TestĪTC stands for Air Traffic Controller. This is Part 1 of 5 of the Learn To Belay Mini-series : To avoid confusion, let’s look at each one of them. There are currently different variations of the ATC in the market.

Lower the climber with the ATC belay device.This article covers how to belay with an ATC.īelaying with an ATC involves knowing how to: There are different types of belay devices and the belay technique may be slightly different for each one. Belaying is a critical skill that every climber has to learn early on.