Chapter 3

Figure 3-19. Bolts and hangers.

BELAY DEVICES
3-35. Belay devices range from the least equipment intensive (the body belay) to high-tech metal alloy
pieces of equipment. Regardless of the belay device choosen, the basic principal remains the
same―friction around or through the belay device controls the ropes’ movement. Belay devices are divided
into three categories: the slot, the tuber, and the mechanical camming device (Figure 3-20).

The slot is a piece of equipment that attaches to a locking carabiner in the harness; a bight of
rope slides through the slot and into the carabiner for the belay. The most common slot type
belay device is the Sticht plate.

The tuber is used exactly like the slot, but its shape is more like a cone or tube.

The mechanical camming device is a manufactured piece of equipment that attaches to the
harness with a locking carabiner. The rope is routed through this device so that when force is
applied the rope is cammed into a highly frictioned position.

Figure 3-20. Slot, tuber, mechanical camming device.

3-18

TC 3-97.61

26 July 2012