Descenders are devices that use friction to control the rate of descent of the climber. They are also used while lowering equipment or climbers during rescue. Since mountaineering is not just about getting to the top, descenders also act as belay devices which help control the friction of the rope and ensure a steady descent back to the base.
In this article, we explore the different kinds of descenders available, their parts and also provide a handy guide for their care and maintenance.
Different Types of Descenders and their Functions
Figure 8: These are the most popular type of descenders and are extremely strong and simple to use. They are widely used in mountaineering, ice-climbing and during rescue operations. Figure 8 descenders are best suited when the drop is short. However, the friction cannot be changed once the load is applied to the device.
