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AustriAlpin No.Mad descender

$55.76$61.95

Designed specifically for canyons, the No.Mad is a horned figure-8 style descender that offers three different friction settings that can be easily added to while abseiling.

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The AustriAlpin No.Mad is a figure-8 style descender designed specifically for canyons.

Three initial friction settings — slow, medium, or fast — can be set when attaching to the rope, with the ability to add two further friction settings to any of these options on the fly. The advantage is a simple device that can be rigged to handle a range of rope types and body weights. The ability to add friction while descending makes shifting between slabs and overhangs a breeze. It is also ideal for longer abseils where the weight of the rope require lower friction when high up, but more as you descend.

A rubber ring holds the carabiner firmly in place, preventing the potential for cross loading.

The No.Mad is able to be used either right or left handed, simply by flipping the device over. The recommended rope diametres for use with it are 8.9 to 11mm for single ropes, or 7.8 to 9mm for double ropes.

Key advantages:

  • nine different friction settings
  • friction can be added while on rope
  • can be used right or left handed
  • rubber ring prevents carabiner cross-loading
  • compatible with a wide range of rope sizes

Product information:

  • Weight: 107gms
  • Material: aluminium alloy
  • Dimensions: 130mm long, 90mm wide
  • Made in: Austria

Using the No.Mad:

Slow setting (most friction): Rope goes through the hole in the device, into the carabiner, and is then placed behind the bottom horns. To add friction while abseiling, take the rope over the top hook for a little more friction, or under the lower hook then over the top hook for the most friction.

Medium setting: Rope goes through the hole in the device, into the carabiner, and is then placed across the device, between the two lower horns. Adding friction while abseiling works as above, with the first additional friction setting taking the rope over the top hook for a little more friction, or for more friction take the rope under the lower hook then over the top hook.

Fast setting (least friction): Rope goes through the hole in the device and into the carabiner, where it is left to run in front of the device. Adding friction while abseiling is the same as above, by running the rope over the top hook for a little more friction, or under the lower hook then over the top hook for more friction.

Locking off: There are three options for locking off while abseiling. The first is the fast block, which involves going to the highest friction level (as above) then running the rope between the abseil line and the descender. You must continue to hold the rope with your break hand. The second block involves taking a loop of rope around the device, forming a hitch by passing the loop under the abseil rope where it exits the device next to the lower friction hook. The final, and most secure technique, is to follow the steps for the second block, but then pass the loop over the two friction hooks before pulling the loop tight.