RIGGING SUPPLY YOU CAN DEPEND ON

Professional Descenders & Rappel Devices

Figure-8 Descenders

The classic descender design featuring two rings (large and small) that create a figure-8 shape. Simple, reliable, and versatile, figure-8 descenders are popular for rappelling, rescue operations, and general descent applications.

Key Features:

• Simple, intuitive operation
• Excellent heat dissipation
• Smooth, controlled descent
• Works with various rope diameters
• Multiple rigging configurations
• Durable construction (aluminum or steel)
• Ideal for rappelling and rescue lowering

Variations:

• Standard Figure-8: Basic design for general rappelling
• Rescue Figure-8: Larger size with ears for additional friction control
• Auto-Blocking Figure-8: Features that help lock rope for hands-free stops

Tube-Style Descenders

Compact devices that create friction by running rope through a tube or slot. Popular for climbing and mountaineering due to their light weight and versatility for both belaying and rappelling.

Key Features:

• Lightweight and compact
• Dual function: belay and rappel
• Works with single or double ropes
• Smooth rope feeding
• Easy to use and versatile
• Popular for climbing and mountaineering

Common Types:

• ATC-Style: Classic tube design for climbing
• Guide Mode: Can be rigged for auto-blocking belay
• Assisted-Braking: Helps catch falls during belaying

Auto-Locking Descenders

Advanced descenders that automatically lock when the user releases the handle, providing hands-free rope holding. Essential for rope access work, rescue operations, and situations requiring frequent stops during descent.

Key Features:

• Automatic locking when handle released
• Hands-free rope holding
• Precise descent control
• Anti-panic function (locks if handle pulled too far)
• Ideal for rope access and rescue
• Smooth, controlled descent
• Works with various rope diameters

Rack Descenders

Multi-bar descenders that provide exceptional friction control through adjustable bars. Popular for rescue operations, caving, and situations requiring precise speed control with heavy loads.

Key Features:

• Adjustable friction with multiple bars
• Excellent heat dissipation
• Precise speed control
• Good for heavy loads
• Popular for rescue and caving
• Durable construction

Specialized Descenders

Purpose-built descenders for specific applications including rescue lowering, industrial rope access, and arborist work.

Types:

• Rescue Descenders: High-capacity devices for rescue lowering operations
• Arborist Descenders: Designed for tree climbing and rigging
• Industrial Descenders: Heavy-duty devices for rope access work
• Compact Descenders: Lightweight options for alpine climbing

Key Considerations

• Application: Climbing, rope access, rescue, or arborist work
• Auto-Locking: Required for rope access and beneficial for rescue operations
• Rope Compatibility: Ensure device works with your rope diameter
• Weight: Lighter for climbing, heavier-duty for rescue and industrial use
• Heat Dissipation: Important for long rappels or heavy loads
• Friction Control: Adjustable friction for varying conditions and loads
• Ease of Use: Simple operation vs. advanced features
• Certifications: Ensure device meets applicable standards (UIAA, EN, NFPA)
• Backup Capability: Some devices can serve dual purposes (belay and rappel)

Application-Specific Recommendations

• Sport Climbing: Tube-style descender (ATC) for lightweight versatility
• Rope Access: Auto-locking descender (I'D, RIG) for hands-free operation
• Rescue: Figure-8 or auto-locking descender with high load capacity
• Arborist: Figure-8 or specialized arborist descender
• Canyoneering: Figure-8 or rack for wet rope performance
• Mountaineering: Lightweight tube-style for multi-purpose use

Safety Guidelines

• Proper Training: Learn correct rigging and operation before use
• Backup Systems: Use backup friction hitch or auto-block for added safety
• Rope Compatibility: Only use with rope diameters specified by manufacturer
• Correct Rigging: Follow manufacturer instructions for rope threading
• Locking Carabiner: Always use locking carabiner to attach descender to harness
• Control Hand: Keep brake hand on rope at all times during descent
• Heat Management: Be aware of heat buildup on long rappels
• Edge Protection: Use edge protection when rappelling over edges
• Inspect Before Use: Check device and rope before each descent

Critical Safety Warnings

• Never Let Go: Always maintain control with brake hand on rope
• Backup Required: Use backup friction hitch for single-rope rappels (except with auto-locking descenders)
• Heat Awareness: Metal devices can become extremely hot during long descents
• Proper Orientation: Ensure device is oriented correctly (brake side down)
• Rope Condition: Never rappel on damaged or questionable rope
• Edge Awareness: Be cautious at edge transitions to prevent loss of control

Key Standards

• UIAA: International standard for climbing equipment
• EN 15151: European standard for descenders
• EN 12841: Rope access descenders and ascenders
• NFPA 1983: North American standard for rescue equipment
• ANSI Z359: Fall protection equipment standards
• CE Marking: Indicates compliance with European safety standards

Inspection Guidelines

• Before Each Use: Visually inspect for cracks, deformation, or damage
• Moving Parts: Check that all moving parts function smoothly
• Wear Patterns: Look for excessive wear, grooves, or sharp edges from rope friction
• Locking Mechanisms: Test auto-locking function if applicable
• Corrosion: Check for rust or corrosion on metal parts
• Rope Grooves: Inspect areas where rope runs for deep grooves
• Attachment Points: Verify attachment holes are not elongated or damaged

Retirement Criteria - Retire Descender If:

• Cracks, deformation, or structural damage visible
• Deep grooves or sharp edges from rope wear
• Moving parts don't function smoothly or correctly
• Auto-locking mechanism fails to engage properly
• Device has been subjected to extreme loads or shock loading
• Excessive corrosion present
• Device has been dropped from significant height
• Age exceeds manufacturer recommendations (typically 10 years)
• History is unknown or undocumented
• Any doubt exists about device integrity

Your life depends on your descender. When in doubt, retire it.

Care & Maintenance

• Cleaning: Wash with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely
• Lubrication: Apply appropriate lubricant to moving parts as recommended by manufacturer
• Storage: Store in cool, dry location away from chemicals and UV exposure
• Avoid Contamination: Keep away from acids, solvents, and other chemicals
• Proper Use: Use only for intended purposes and within rated capacities
• Documentation: Maintain usage logs for professional applications
• Periodic Service: Some devices require periodic inspection or service by manufacturer

What's the difference between a descender and a belay device?

Many devices serve both functions. Descenders are optimized for controlled descent (rappelling), while belay devices are optimized for catching falls. Tube-style devices work well for both. Figure-8s are primarily descenders. Auto-locking descenders are specialized for descent and rope access work. Choose based on your primary use, or select a multi-purpose device for versatility.

Do I need an auto-locking descender?

Auto-locking descenders are required for most rope access work and highly beneficial for rescue operations where hands-free rope holding is needed. For recreational climbing and rappelling, standard descenders with proper backup systems are adequate. Auto-locking devices provide additional safety and convenience but are more expensive and heavier than basic descenders.

Why does my descender get hot during rappelling?

Friction creates heat. On long rappels or with heavy loads, descenders can become extremely hot—hot enough to burn skin or damage rope. This is normal but must be managed. Use devices with good heat dissipation (figure-8s excel at this), take breaks on long rappels, and be aware of device temperature. Never touch the device immediately after a long rappel.

What rope diameter should I use with my descender?

Always use rope diameters specified by the manufacturer. Most descenders work with a range (e.g., 9-12mm). Using rope too thin reduces friction and control; rope too thick may not fit properly or could damage the device. Check manufacturer specifications and ensure your rope diameter is within the approved range.

Should I use a backup when rappelling?

Yes, unless using an auto-locking descender. Standard practice is to use a backup friction hitch (autoblock, prusik) below the descender on single-rope rappels. This provides a backup in case you lose control or need to go hands-free. Auto-locking descenders have built-in backup functionality. Always follow best practices for your discipline and application.

Professional Descenders from US Rigging

US Rigging is a manufacturer and master distributor of climbing ropes, fall protection equipment, and industrial rigging equipment located in Santa Ana, California. With over 40 years of experience serving climbers, rope access professionals, rescue teams, and arborists, we offer professional descenders and rappel devices from the world's most trusted manufacturers.

Our descender collection includes figure-8s, tube-style devices, auto-locking descenders, rack descenders, and specialized devices for every application. Whether you need a lightweight tube-style descender for sport climbing, an auto-locking device for rope access work, a heavy-duty figure-8 for rescue operations, or a specialized descender for arborist work, we have the certified equipment and expertise to ensure safe, controlled descents.

Browse our descender selection and contact our knowledgeable team for expert guidance. Trust US Rigging for professional-grade descent control equipment you can depend on.