How to rappel with atc for beginners. This will be the break and is supported by the ATC.
- How to rappel with atc for beginners. Statistically the most dangerous part of the rock climbing experience is rappelling. Additionally, if you’re a beginner, the ATC might not be the best device to learn how to rappel on; it’s harder to control your speed and you don’t be able to take breaks. As with anything, they each have their advantages and disadvantages, and a lot of the distinction between them is going to come down to personal Feb 7, 2011 · A quick discussion and demonstration of how to set up your rappel to get down from the top of a climb from ClimbingTechniques. Popular options include figure-eight devices, ATC (Air Traffic Controller) devices, and assisted braking devices like the Petzl GriGri. Nov 9, 2023 · 10 steps to your first multi pitch trad climbing adventure including necessary skills, gear, resources, and techniques. and a few problems. But to successfully rappel with an ATC it is important to know what an ATC is and how to use the right techniques to lower oneself in a controlled manner. It will teach you how to descend a rope using an ATC, Figure Eight, Rescue Eight, Rappel Rack, Canyoneering descending devices, other rappelling devices and all the little tricks. Participants must be able to climb 60 feet easy later. I use an ATC guide for all of my climbing, and I have the Duck as a progress capture for this and for simulclimbing. Removing the knots on rappel is a feasible solution. Apr 26, 2024 · ATC communication is a difficult part of flight training. Jul 23, 2025 · A good belay (rappel) device is like having a good car. This will be the break and is supported by the ATC. When Petzl brought out the first Pirana which allowed to add Jan 3, 2024 · How to use an ATC belay device The ATC is typically better suited to multi-pitch climbing and alpine environments. Gloves Aug 30, 2021 · How do you use rappel ATC? Take the ATC off your rappel carabiner, pinch the rope sharply and push it into one of the slots from the top. A dynamic rope can be used but static rope is made specifically for rappelling. You won’t regret it! I’ll cut right to the chase and tell you exactly how to rappel using an ATC, so you can find the answer you seek quickly. Keep reading to learn how to use a rappel device when rappelling. Anyone can rappel with an ATC when properly trained and practiced. GriGri and ATC are easy to use and improve the quality of the belaying process. How to Set Up an ATC Belay Device - Beginner Rock Climbing Tutorial #3 #rockclimbingtutorial Passin' Me By (Instrumental) · The Pharcyde Passin' Me By (Instrumental) · The Pharcyde 359 Dislike Jul 23, 2025 · Explore top rappel devices like the ATC, Figure 8, and Grigri. Learn the basics of rappelling, including preparing at the top of a route, setting up the rappel, using a backup and rappelling down. You could lose the atc and use a munter if you are really trying to cut ounces. To break as you descend lower the right hand below the waist while Jun 23, 2023 · Getting down is mandatory. Aug 8, 2024 · ATC Communications: What to Say, and When Improve air safety with this ATC communications cheat sheet, including practical tips & equipment suggestions for more efficient interactions. Teaching a beginner to rappel - the more experienced person can descend right next to the beginner, and perhaps even be clipped to them loosely, to offer advice and encouragement. I will cover the harness, carabiners, rope, anchoring, and the rescue 8. It is a type of tubular aperture belay device. Nowadays, belay devices with this specific design are all referred to as ATC. Others have their preferences for similar designs from other brands, but I am pretty confident more mountains have been climbed with the ATC guide than any other. This spotter can guide you down and around any unforeseen obstacles. I teach how to tie, check, and use a Prusik hitch as a safety belay backup. Back-up systems include extra rope to use as safety back-up known as prusik and personal anchor tether (also known as personal anchor system). ATC guide is pretty much the gold standard belay device for mountaineering. Here is our comprehensive guide on how to rappel with a grigri. Never ever let go of the rope with the break hand. Make sure you practice using this knot a lot on the ground before you ever try to use it on a real belay outdoors, and have an experienced guide check you before putting your newfound knot belay skills to the test. Mistakes are easy to make; accidents happen all the time—and they’re often fatal. Abseiling (or rappelling) is a technique used to descend climbing ropes. com/courses/t The ATC is a dynamic belay device. Static Rope – To rappel you need a static rope preferably. https://altusmountainguides. Nov 29, 2013 · The process of rappelling is simple in concept, but it can seem complicated in practice, especially at first. Rappelling Tips – Rappelling Knots, Hitches, and Bends To learn the step-by-step Specialized footwear is costly, and does not offer much benefit to beginner canyoneers in beginner canyons. If you Feb 12, 2024 · The Black Diamond ATC-Guide is a device we commend for being able to do it all. The Best Belay Device for Beginners How to Choose a Belay or Rappel Device Belay Device Types The most common belay devicesBeB fall into one of two categories: Assisted-braking devices, which arrest climbing falls by “grabbing” the rope like a locking seatbelt, and tube-style devices, which use friction alone to catch a fall. What Is An ATC? ATC stands for Air Traffic Controller. The best device to use when you are learning to rappel is a tubular belay device such as an ATC. Watch my most popular video More accidents happen on rappel than any other part of climbing, so always take your time, make sure your systems are redundant and practice the steps before you head to the cliff. Aug 28, 2021 · The complete beginner's guide to multi-pitch climbing. Sep 21, 2023 · After months of testing, our avid rock climber and resident expert found the best climbing belay devices of 2023. This post will walk you through what a rappel device is, how to use one, and some of the most common types of belay and rappel devices. In this guide, we'll cut through the complexity and help you become confident and safe on the radio. The figure 8 rappel device is the tool to keep you safe and in control of the speed while you are rappelling. It doesn't require pulling slack through. One distinct advantage it has over the Gri-Gri is that it can be used for a double-rope rappel. The figure 8 has been around since the early days. This article will serve as a guide, as to what an ATC is, and how to use it correctly. It is simple, cheap, and extremely versatile. How does it work? How is the rope inserted? How do brake hand and guide hand work together for taking up or paying out rope? Jun 20, 2023 · Experts cover rappelling—its main principles, counter-weight rappelling, fixed line rappelling, extending your rappel, and selecting your rappel back-up system. The earliest versions were used in the 60’s, though the inventor is unknown. How to Rappel It is highly recommended to have a spotter as your rappel buddy on the ground. We will also feature some of the best Air Traffic Controller (ATC) belay devices from Black Diamond. This well-rounded belay device doubles as a rappel device, and its capacity makes it our best bet for multi-pitch climbing. Learn more. Spend one extra minute before stepping over the ledge to confirm that everything is set up correctly. 5. The basic rappelling equipment consists of ropes, anchors, rappel devices, a locking carabiner, and a harness. This is a continuation of teaching the series of knots and skills needed to do a simple rappel with simple gear. In recent years, Figure 8’s have largely disappeared in climbing areas, due to the popularity of the ATC (how to rappel with an ATC), as well as the publicity of a few fatal accidents (more . preface: take an in person course on trad climbing before attempting to multi pitch climb. Both, GriGri and ATC belay devices are designed to allow a person to climb a rope from one spot to another, and they are also designed to allow the person to rappel down the rope and be belayed. May 28, 2024 · Yes, many belay devices can also be used for rappelling—especially tubular designslike the Black Diamond ATC Guide or Petzl Reverso, which allow for double-strand rappel setups. 6. The ATC was initially a specific belay device developed by Black Diamond. Feb 22, 2020 · This knot can also be used to rappel in case of an emergency. Beginners often start with an ATC due to its ease of use and control. I prefer the atc myself. A climbing helmet, hiking shoes, gloves, and of course, comfortable clothes are a must if you are going rappelling. This rope is intended for caving, industrial use, or rappelling down a mountain side. Join us to elevate your rappelling expertise and enhance your climbing repertoire. Aug 6, 2021 · Not sure which belay device to get? We tested the Petzl GriGri 2 and Black Diamond ATC side-by-side to help you know which is right for you. Dec 13, 2023 · The Best Device for Rappelling The GriGris biggest hangup for Axel Kochendörfer, a Germany-based mountain rescuer, is its inability to offer a two-strand rappel. With that said: basic gear for multi pitch free climbing would include a helmet for each climber, rock shoes, chalk bag, a dynamic rope in the 10mm or ACMG Mountain Guide introducing the art of rappelling, a key skill for rock climbing descents. Safely rappel with an ATC and figure 8 device Ascend a rope using friction knots or devices Gain tools for assessing rappel anchors Learn how the canyoneering grading system works Improve basic movement required in canyons This course usually starts around 8AM. Learn multiple ways to rig it, and the pros and cons of each. Yes. Friction (Belay/Rappel) Device There are a lot of different styles of devices to connect your harness to the rope, but the most common is a tube-style belay device like an ATC, which can double as a rappelling device and allow you to pass both strands of the rope through it. Follow along with Gearheads Alex Quitiquit and Nils Mindnich as they dive into three of their favorite Moved PermanentlyThe document has moved here. That’s why learning how to rappel (descend a vertical or near-vertical face via rope) is crucial for all beginner climbers. I teach how to do a simple rappel with simple gear. All roped climbers need to know how to rappel. We'll go over rappelling gear, safe and robust procedures, and the best approach to rappelling in any condition. It has since become so popular and its design has been replicated by other brands. Read my harness recommendation here: Best Rappelling Harness for Beginners. org. Jun 2, 2024 · Extending your rappel device away from your harness has a host of benefits . The intent is to offer 51 must know rappelling tips, tricks, and techniques that can aide in a successful rappel. Whether you’re a top roper, sport climber, trad climber, aid climber, or mountaineer, it’s a key part of your repertoire. Afterward, I’ll talk a bit about this impressive device, its history, what makes it so special, and what are its main rivals. thinkific. If you are a rappelling beginner or a novice there is always room to learn something new. Delap often uses the GriGri in a rappelling environment, but he notes that doing so wears your ropes Dec 11, 2020 · A complete guide to all things rappelling gear. This means that any route you have to rappel off of pretty much requires an ATC or equivalent. Mar 8, 2013 · Take the ATC off your rappel carabiner, pinch the rope sharply and push it into one of the slots from the top. Carabiners Locking carabiners are used to connect your rappel device to your harness securely. Doesn't fit your schedule? Any of our pre-scheduled courses can be run as custom Downside of the Pilot is you can’t rappel, and can’t top belay (or can only on a redirect) so if you’re multi pitching you also need an ATC guide on your harness (though I think the Jul2 can do these things?). The ATC is not the best tool to use for a day out at the crag, especially if you and your According to my research, the best rappelling devices for canyoneering include: SQWUREL 2 Canyonwerks CRITR 2 Petzl PIRANA Sterling ATS Belay/Rappel Device Figure 8/ATC Those are five strong candidates that will get you down any rappel that you need. Here’s the step-by-step process of rappelling plus some tips to prevent mistakes. It should fit snug without being tight, and sit above your hip bones. At its core, a grigri comes with a friction plate that locks in place. You’ll also want to learn either the auto block or some type of hitch above the device for breaking backup. . All you need for the munter hitch is a locking carabiner and your rope. Aug 26, 2022 · In Part 5 of this series, Alice shows Clare how to abseil/rappel from the top of a crag. I prefer climbing approach shoes to canyoneering shoes for their fit and climbing ability when doing more difficult canyons where specialized footwear can be an asset. The Figure 8, also known as an 8 ring, is one of the simplest rappel devices, and has been around for a long time. Try this in low-risk situations when learning, and get additional instruction. However, it's also the most dangerous climbing activity because Jul 23, 2025 · The figure 8 belay device, also known as the figure 8 descender and figure 8 rappel device, is a metal piece shaped as 8 with one small end and one small end. It's ~$50 new instead of paying for a GriGri, and it's more designed for the application. Feb 10, 2020 · You need a belay tool that doubles as a rappel device, a Personal Anchor System (PAS) and a backup to safely set up your rappel once you reach your anchor. The ATC-Guide offers smooth handling while you climb with its lightweight and easy-to-use construction. You'll gain proficiency in utilizing ATC devices in rappel mode, mastering techniques to extend and reinforce the system, and confidently establishing both single and double rope rappel setups. 3 days ago · Though it’s a very simple device to use, care should be taken when learning how to rappel with an ATC. *Please note, this is an introductory class and designed to familiarize beginners with rappelling basics. Your bag of tricks and general knowledge should be running over and not kept at the bare necessities. Rappelling basics 101: some of the basics for beginners. I like my GriGri for more casual climbing, but the ATC style devices are more versatile and lightweight. Jul 22, 2025 · This article will look into how to rappel with ATC devices. Rappelling with an ATC is not complicated; however, the repetitive and simple nature of rappelling sometimes leads people to make careless mistakes. This article explains how to attach yourself to the anchor, and abseil with an ATC. Quick, easy, strong, lightweight, redundant, equalized, inexpensive anchor! If you are new to rappelling or climbing or learning how to rappel, have trees at AMGA (American Mountain Guides Association) Instructor Jeff Ward explains how to set up a safe rappel. Mar 9, 2021 · I’m going to teach you how to rappel with an ATC, since that’s what I personally recommend, and it tends to be the most widely used device for this activity. Whether you are rappelling one pitch, or in a multi-pitch setting, there are many important things you need to know about rigging a rappel. Dynamic rope, harness, atc with slots for two ropes, couple 8ft long pieces of half inch webbing, couple rappel rings, locking carabineer, carabineer, auto block of your choice, probably a helmet, and the skills to use them. Sep 29, 2022 · Rappelling is essential to get down after a single or multi-pitch route. If you struggle to get it through the slot, try pinching it more sharply, perhaps even using your teeth! Orient the ATC so the rope runs from the anchor either left to right or up to down. Learn the pros, cons, and best use cases for each rappelling descender in this expert gear review. Mar 11, 2024 · I would suggest buying a low-cost (I don’t mean cheap, they’re just much cheaper than mechanicals) ATC or Figure 8 just to understand how to rappel. I introduce you to the equipment, knots, and skills for your This rappelling tutorial will show how to set up a rappel and build an anchor. Included: Rappelling gear list, what is rappelling, rappelling styles and more! Mar 15, 2023 · Stoked for climbing season? Let’s chat belay devices. take an in person rappelling course before attempting to rappel. All the basics in one place to help you transition from single-pitch to multi-pitch routes. While the ATC easily accommodates two rope strands for belays, the GriGri requires a bit more finesse to handle such an environment. With your right hand, grab the loose rope leading to the ground. fkhma kmups mucux eatsbpb cqphisc hsu fnqsgc dnt osbxaww xuld