Carabiners

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between screw-gate, twist-lock and triple-lock carabiners?

A screw gate is locked by turning a threaded sleeve by hand, so the user decides when it is locked. A twist-lock sleeve springs back and locks automatically when released, and a triple-lock gate adds a further movement before it can open. Automatic gates remove the risk of a sleeve being left undone, which is why they are common in rope access, rescue and work positioning.

What do the three kN figures on a carabiner mean?

They are breaking strengths in three directions: along the major axis with the gate closed, across the minor axis, and along the major axis with the gate open. The major-axis figure applies only when the carabiner is loaded correctly along its spine. For comparison, EN 12275 requires a basic (Type B) climbing carabiner to hold at least 20 kN, 7 kN and 7 kN in those directions.

What is a key-lock nose and why does it matter?

A key-lock nose has a smooth, notch-free profile where the gate closes, instead of a hook and pin. It is less likely to snag on slings, rope, bolt hangers or harness loops when clipping and unclipping. Hook-nose designs are robust and traditional, but catch more easily.

Which gate type should a quickdraw use?

The usual arrangement is a straight solid gate on the bolt end, where a bent gate could be levered open by the hanger, and a bent or wire gate on the rope end for easier clipping. Wire gates are lighter, less prone to gate flutter and less likely to freeze. Non-locking carabiners should not be used for belaying or other connections that must stay closed.

Aluminium or steel carabiners: which should I specify?

Aluminium alloys, including 7075, give a high strength-to-weight ratio and can be anodised in colour, which suits climbing and portable kits. Steel is heavier but more resistant to rope-groove wear and abrasion, so it is used for fixed quickdraws and industrial connectors.

What should a carabiner RFQ include?

State the model or drawing, the gate type, the standard the finished part must be certified to, the destination market, quantities, colours, marking content and packaging. If you plan to modify an existing frame, include the target strength figures and gate opening so feasibility can be checked early.