The Petzl Grigri is a self-braking belay device designed to help a belayer arrest the fall of a climber even if the latter is bigger and heavier than he or she is. It features a clutch that locks itself once it senses a sudden or abrupt and heavy load, much like a vehicle’s seat belt locks itself in the event of a collision or roll. Once a shock load coming from a fall is detected, the stainless steel cam within the aluminum side plates pivot to pinch the rope against the friction plate, also in stainless steel.
This belay device is suited to both top roping and lead climbing. It can also be used for rappelling on single ropes. With its reinforced nylon lever release handle to release the rope, it helps in a smooth and easy lowering of climbers.
Paying out rope is done with both hands, with the left holding the rope closer to the climber. The right hand feeds the rope into the Grigri while the left pulls it out giving the climber slack. Holding the free end of the rope stops a fall. This hold is also used for lowering and rappelling.
Petzl Grigri is intended to hold 10 to 11 mm diameter ropes. Those of smaller diameters run the risk of slipping through the cam and the friction plate thus allowing a fall.
This belay, weighing 225 grams, is available in blue, burgundy red, and gray.