Quick links and rap rings

[brussmann]

I know this might be obvious to all experienced canyoneers but that is why I ask on this forum. What Quick links do you mostly used. There are some in home depot, either with zinc coating or steel, and then there is a lot of expensive ones in REI and such stores... And also, if you ran out of quick links, what are the dangers rapping just from the webbing? I am planning a trip to Robbers Roost and San Rafael Swell this spring so need to make sure I stock up on these since there is very few places to shop :doh:. Thanks

[rcwild]

Depends how you will use them.

To leave behind on rappels ...
Home Depot or WalMart. Recommend 5/16". Only use the ones that have a SWL rating stamped on them, usually around 1780 for the 5/16". SWL stands for Safe Working Load. Actual breaking strength will likely be 3-4 times SWL. Avoid the ones that have no stamp or only say Made in China.

To permanently attach something ...
For example, attaching a Spelegyca to your harness. Spend the extra money for a high-quality stainless steel maillon rapide from your local climbing shop (or mine).

[rcwild]

... if you ran out of quick links, what are the dangers rapping just from the webbing?

Your concern should be about retrieving your rope. Additional friction between rope and webbing can make for a harder pull.

Those who come after you should be concerned about the damage you did to the webbing when you pulled your rope. Again, that friction thing.

[Pilot]

I would add that when rapping double strand off webbing only, you should be careful to make sure that both strands of rope go evenly through the rap device. You do not want a 'differential' rappell to cause friction on the webbing, especially on longer raps. I have often seen some small amount of rope movement at the anchor station when people rap double strand. It is usually only a small amount, but something to watch for nonetheless.

[sonnylawrence]

And also, if you ran out of quick links, what are the dangers rapping just from the webbing?
Another "danger" is not retrieving your rope. You may have just the right situation wherein there is too much friction between the rope and webbing such that you can not put down the rope. Having a rappel ring or rapide may allow for the rope to be retrieved.

[oldno7]

Sometimes---timing is everything: (timing in regards to this accident happening shortly after this thread) http://www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_12029503

[mountain man]

bump this thread to the top for ewestesen

[rcwild]

bump this thread to the top for ewestesen

Thank you, Shaun.

[ewestesen]

Ah yes... there it is. Thanks guys... I'll try to be a little quicker to search before I start hijacking threads next time.

[rcwild]

Ah yes... there it is. Thanks guys... I'll try to be a little quicker to search before I start hijacking threads next time.

No worries. There is a LOT of information on our forums. It can be a bit overwhelming.

[ewestesen]

So now that I'm in the right place... the Newbie zone... heh....

Is there any advantage of a rap ring over a rapide? Or does it just come down to personal preference? Is there a situation where a rapide/rap ring would be better?

[rcwild]

Rapides -- aka rapid links, aka quick links -- provide the convenience of a gate that opens, which allows you to rig your webbing, then add the rapide. Rings must be threaded as you rig your webbing. Not a big deal, unless the rigging is complex (i.e. multi points).

Avoid the light, hollow aluminum bail-out rings sold in climbing stores. They have a very short safe life span in canyons. Better to use the solid aluminum rings made by Omega Pacific or the welded stainless steel. When you compare the cost, quality rapides become even more attractive.