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Using the Kong GiGi
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So I just got a Gigi to use for top belaying. After reading the instructions and other stuff on the internet, I decided to try it in regular plaquette top rope belay style. I know that this is not in the intended use of this device, but I don’t understand why. I top roped with it just like my ATC and it worked great. A little lest friction, but it performed. Anyone have thoughts on this? |
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Not ideal for catching leader falls due to less friction than an atc or munter hitch, I would imagine it would be fine for belaying a top rope climber in experienced hands though I'd probably just use a munter if given the choice between that and the gigi. Works great in plaquette mode, be sure to set it up correctly if using thin ropes. |
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You can belay using a rappel ring, but no one does because that's stupid, and there are better options. Similarly the Gigi is designed for butter smooth follower belays and rappelling, so the geometry just isn't ideal for belaying a leader. You can totally top rope belay with it as long as your rope is thick enough but I'd avoid belaying a leader. The lack of a keeper wire lets it migrate away from the carabiner if you aren't paying attention. I'm a big Gigi fan, but only for certain things like belaying two followers on singles, or pairing it with a grigri in the alpine. |
DrRockso wrote: Not ideal for catching leader falls due to less friction...Speaking of lead belaying with a gigi.... http://willgadd.com/ice-climbing-is-not-rock-climbing/ |
Nate Tastic wrote: Aside from these ones, which articles have you read on the topic? I think that sums up what I’ve read. Not a lot out there on it. |
