A lightweight and versatile ascender, the Petzl Basic Multipurpose Ascender is great as a rope climbing device, self-belay on a fixed rope, and anti-slip device for hauling. This is made possible because it has multiple attachment points.
It features a steel cam that is chrome-plated and which has angled teeth with self-cleaning slots. The combination of these two assures you of a secure grip on the rope when it is pulled in a downward direction even in icy, wet, or muddy environment. The area of the cam where the rope glides when in an upward motion, on the other hand, has been refined to assure a smooth glide. This results in less tiring ascent especially when climbing very tall trees.
In order to avoid an accidental opening of the cam and detachment of the ascender from the rope, the locking mechanism or trigger is recessed inside the frame. Notwithstanding this, it can still be opened or closed with one hand.
The Basic Multipurpose Ascender is designed to work with ropes from 8 to 13 mm in diameter. Its frame is constructed of aluminum while the trigger is made of nylon. These lightweight materials allow the ascender to weigh only 135 grams.