CMI EXPEDITION ASCENDER

CMI EXPEDITION ASCENDER

The Expedition Ascender is a perfect choice for big wall or mountaineering endeavors. Engineered for comfort, the handle opening is extra wide to accommodate gloved hands. Works with 7mm-12mm ropes. Sold individually.

• Weight (per pair): 510 grams
• Strength: 3400 lbs

Actually, they are not significantly heavier than other current ascenders (500gm for the pair, versus 556gm for Jumars and 400gm for Petzl Ascensions) nor apparently bulkier. It is readily apparent these ascenders are targeted more for the big-wall and alpine mountaineering markets than cavers, as the grips are generously sized for a mitten-clad hand.

Further inspection showed the CMI's to be of extruded aluminum alloy construction, painted with a tough black epoxy paint and outfitted with large plastic handgrips attached by countersunk allen-head screws. There is a single attachment hole at the top (above the cam) and two holes in the handle base. These are quite large and readily accepted my largest "Rescue D" carabiner. The cam design is identical to the other CMI ascenders currently marketed (guaranteed for life) and is secured to the alloy body with a steel pin and snap ring.

PROS: Beefy, grips well on icy ropes, multiple tie-in points, comfortable grips.

CONS: Bulky (as opposed to beefy?), price, safety: difficult to use one-handed.

SUMMARY: A robust device conjuring images of the old Clog ascenders, probably better left to big-wall climbers and winter mountaineers. Functions well on a variety of rope sizes so may be of benefit to rescue groups using large-diameter ropes.