Let’s Dive into Cypher 11cm/4.3″ Draw – Black , 13cm/5.1″ Draw – Black , 16cm/6.3″ Draw – Black , 20cm/7.9″ Draw – Black , Nylon Slings 60cm/24″ , Nylon Slings 80cm/32″ , Nylon Slings 120cm/48″
The Cypher 11cm/4.3″ Draw – Black , 13cm/5.1″ Draw – Black , 16cm/6.3″ Draw – Black , 20cm/7.9″ Draw – Black , Nylon Slings 60cm/24″ , Nylon Slings 80cm/32″ , Nylon Slings 120cm/48″ are essential pieces of climbing equipment, offered by Cypher, ranging from quickdraws to slings of various lengths. These components are designed to be reliable and durable, a climber’s lifeline in vertical environments.
As a seasoned climber, I was seeking affordable yet dependable gear for building trad anchors and extending placements on wandering routes. The Cypher offerings seemed to strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and necessary strength. My initial unboxing revealed simple, functional designs, nothing flashy, but everything looked well-stitched and ready for abuse.
Compared to Black Diamond’s higher-end options or the super lightweight draws from Petzl, the Cypher line appeared more focused on value and longevity. I wasn’t aiming for summiting Everest; I needed solid gear for local crags and multi-pitch climbs, and Cypher looked like a viable choice. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping they’d hold up under repeated use without breaking the bank.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cypher 11cm/4.3″ Draw – Black , 13cm/5.1″ Draw – Black , 16cm/6.3″ Draw – Black , 20cm/7.9″ Draw – Black , Nylon Slings 60cm/24″ , Nylon Slings 80cm/32″ , Nylon Slings 120cm/48″ to the Test
First Use Experience
My first foray with the Cypher gear was at a local granite crag known for its varied climbing styles, from slab to steep overhangs. The quickdraws were used on a sport climb, while the slings were integrated into a trad anchor setup at the top. The draws clipped smoothly into both the bolts and my rope, feeling secure despite their budget-friendly price point.
During a slightly damp morning, the nylon material of the slings maintained its grip, providing confidence while building the anchor. There was minimal slippage, even when weighted unevenly. After the climb, the gear showed no immediate signs of wear, an encouraging start.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of weekly climbing trips, the Cypher gear continues to perform reliably. The quickdraws have seen countless clips and whippers, and the slings have been used in various anchor configurations. The nylon hasn’t frayed significantly, and the stitching remains intact.
Maintenance is simple, consisting of rinsing off dirt and grime with water and occasionally using a mild soap for stubborn stains. Compared to some of my older, more expensive gear, the Cypher products are holding up surprisingly well, defying my initial skepticism about their longevity.
Breaking Down the Features of Cypher 11cm/4.3″ Draw – Black , 13cm/5.1″ Draw – Black , 16cm/6.3″ Draw – Black , 20cm/7.9″ Draw – Black , Nylon Slings 60cm/24″ , Nylon Slings 80cm/32″ , Nylon Slings 120cm/48″
Specifications
- Material: High-quality nylon webbing is used for both the quickdraws and slings, providing a good strength-to-weight ratio. Nylon’s inherent abrasion resistance is crucial for gear constantly rubbing against rock.
- Draw Lengths: The Cypher quickdraws come in various lengths (11cm/4.3″, 13cm/5.1″, 16cm/6.3″, 20cm/7.9″) to reduce rope drag and extend placements effectively. Different lengths are essential for varying terrain and minimizing rope-induced stress.
- Sling Lengths: The nylon slings are available in 60cm/24″, 80cm/32″, and 120cm/48″ lengths, providing versatility for anchor building and extending placements. These lengths cater to different anchoring scenarios and equalize load distribution in complex systems.
- Color: All models are black, which, while aesthetically simple, can sometimes make them harder to spot against darker rock backgrounds. Brighter colors often enhance visibility and organization on a gear rack.
- Construction: CNC machining is used in the manufacturing process. This ensures precision and consistent quality across all pieces.
Performance & Functionality
The Cypher quickdraws and slings perform their intended function admirably, providing reliable connection points in various climbing scenarios. The carabiners on the quickdraws clip smoothly, and the nylon webbing is supple enough to prevent excessive stiffness.
A notable strength is their affordability, making them an accessible option for climbers on a budget or those needing to expand their gear collection. One area for potential improvement is the weight; while not excessively heavy, they aren’t the lightest options on the market.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is robust, reflecting Cypher’s commitment to creating durable gear. While not featuring any revolutionary designs, the Cypher equipment is practical and functional.
There’s virtually no learning curve; the equipment is straightforward to use, even for beginners. The black color scheme is sleek but could be improved for visibility.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the high-quality nylon and robust stitching, the Cypher gear is expected to last for years with proper care. Maintenance primarily involves cleaning to remove dirt and grime.
Occasional inspection for signs of wear or fraying is essential to ensure continued safety. The product’s simple design also contributes to ease of maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cypher quickdraws and slings don’t offer extensive customization options, focusing on providing reliable functionality as-is. They are, however, compatible with most standard climbing carabiners, allowing users to replace or upgrade these components.
The simple design integrates well with a wide range of other climbing gear, ensuring compatibility with different climbing styles and preferences. Be sure to use bold and italic text where necessary to emphasize important points.
Pros and Cons of Cypher 11cm/4.3″ Draw – Black , 13cm/5.1″ Draw – Black , 16cm/6.3″ Draw – Black , 20cm/7.9″ Draw – Black , Nylon Slings 60cm/24″ , Nylon Slings 80cm/32″ , Nylon Slings 120cm/48″
Pros
- Exceptional Value: Offers reliable performance at a very competitive price point, making it accessible for climbers on a budget.
- Durable Construction: High-quality nylon and robust stitching ensure longevity, even with frequent use.
- Versatile Length Options: Available in various quickdraw and sling lengths to suit different climbing styles and terrain.
- Easy to Use: Straightforward design requires no learning curve, making it suitable for beginners and experienced climbers alike.
- Dependable Performance: Provides secure and smooth clipping, enhancing safety and confidence on the wall.
Cons
- Black Color: The uniform black color can make it harder to distinguish gear, particularly in darker environments, reducing visibility.
- Not the Lightest Option: While not excessively heavy, there are lighter alternatives available on the market, appealing to climbers focused on minimizing weight.
Who Should Buy Cypher 11cm/4.3″ Draw – Black , 13cm/5.1″ Draw – Black , 16cm/6.3″ Draw – Black , 20cm/7.9″ Draw – Black , Nylon Slings 60cm/24″ , Nylon Slings 80cm/32″ , Nylon Slings 120cm/48″?
The Cypher quickdraws and slings are perfect for budget-conscious climbers, beginners building their initial gear rack, and those needing to expand their equipment without breaking the bank. They are also suitable for climbers who prioritize durability and reliability over cutting-edge lightweight designs.
Those focused on alpine climbing or long multi-pitch routes where every ounce counts might prefer lighter, more expensive options. Climbers who value high visibility and distinctive color schemes might also consider alternatives.
Conclusion on Cypher 11cm/4.3″ Draw – Black , 13cm/5.1″ Draw – Black , 16cm/6.3″ Draw – Black , 20cm/7.9″ Draw – Black , Nylon Slings 60cm/24″ , Nylon Slings 80cm/32″ , Nylon Slings 120cm/48″
The Cypher 11cm/4.3″ Draw – Black , 13cm/5.1″ Draw – Black , 16cm/6.3″ Draw – Black , 20cm/7.9″ Draw – Black , Nylon Slings 60cm/24″ , Nylon Slings 80cm/32″ , Nylon Slings 120cm/48″ offers an excellent balance of affordability, durability, and functionality. The price is more than justified by its reliable performance and robust construction.
I would definitely recommend this gear to climbers seeking a cost-effective solution without sacrificing safety and dependability. If you’re looking for quality gear that won’t empty your wallet, give Cypher a try – you might be surprised by how well it performs.