Metolius Supercam Review

Let’s Dive into Metolius Supercam

The Metolius Supercam is an oversized camming unit designed for those placements where standard cams simply won’t cut it. Manufactured by Metolius, this piece of protection is engineered for larger cracks and features a Kevlar trigger with range finder technology. It boasts optimized cam angles and wider cam faces to enhance holding power, making it a crucial piece of gear for any serious climber tackling routes with wide features.

My journey to the Metolius Supercam began with a frustrating experience on a multi-pitch climb in Zion. I encountered a massive, flared chimney where my standard rack was utterly useless. I needed reliable protection for these oversized placements, and the Supercam seemed like the perfect solution.

Unboxing the Supercam was a satisfying experience. The build quality felt immediately solid, with the CNC machined 6061-T6 aluminum exuding durability. The weight, at 9 ounces, felt substantial but not overly burdensome considering its size and intended use.

Compared to other large format cams like the Black Diamond Camalot Ultralight #6, the Metolius Supercam offers a slightly different approach. I chose the Supercam primarily for its reputation for bombproof placements in less-than-perfect rock. Its wider cam faces offered more contact area than some competitors, giving me added confidence.

My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The action was smooth, the Kevlar trigger felt responsive, and the overall design inspired confidence. I was eager to put it to the test on some challenging climbs.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Metolius Supercam to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Metolius Supercam was on a sandstone route in Red Rock Canyon, Nevada. The route featured several wide cracks and chimneys that were perfect for testing the Supercam‘s capabilities. I tested the Supercam on a particularly awkward off-width section.

The Supercam performed flawlessly in the dry conditions. The placement was solid and reassuring. The cam was easy to place and remove even in the awkward terrain.

The ease of use was impressive. The range finder technology on the Kevlar trigger provided excellent feedback. This allowed me to quickly identify optimal placement positions. There were no unexpected hitches or snags.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Metolius Supercam has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. It has been a consistent addition to my climbing kit. It has seen action on granite, sandstone, and even some less-than-ideal limestone.

The Supercam has shown minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to some pretty rough treatment. The 6061-T6 aluminum is remarkably resistant to abrasion. The Kevlar trigger remains strong and functional.

Maintaining the Supercam is relatively simple. A quick brush down after each use is generally sufficient. Periodic lubrication of the moving parts ensures smooth operation. This has made a difference in longevity, proving to be a worthwhile investment.

Compared to some older, heavier large cams I’ve used in the past, the Metolius Supercam is a significant improvement. It offers a superior balance of weight, strength, and ease of use. The optimized cam angle and wider cam faces gives it superior holding power.

Breaking Down the Features of Metolius Supercam

Specifications

• The Metolius Supercam is constructed from 6061-T6 Aluminum, ensuring a lightweight and robust build. This material choice is critical for balancing weight and strength, which is important for any piece of climbing protection.
• The Supercam I tested is the medium size, weighing in at 9 oz. This weight is substantial, but appropriate for the size and intended use of the cam.
• The Supercam features a double stem design. This provides enhanced stability and reduces the chance of the cam walking during use.
• It’s classified as a camming device within the broader category of climbing hardware. This means it is actively placed in a crack or fissure and relies on outward pressure to create a secure hold.
• The Supercam includes a Kevlar trigger with range finder technology. This ensures consistent, equally-tensioned trigger pull throughout its range and provides visual feedback for optimal placement.

These specifications contribute directly to the Supercam‘s overall performance and user experience. The lightweight aluminum reduces weight, while the Kevlar trigger enhances precision. The wide cam faces maximize holding power.

Performance & Functionality

The Metolius Supercam excels at providing bomber protection in large cracks and chimneys. Its wider cam faces and optimized cam angle translate to enhanced holding power. This is very important when facing a challenging climb.

Its greatest strength lies in its ability to inspire confidence in situations where other cams fall short. The size and stability offers more security. I have personally appreciated its easy placement, which can save time.

There are minimal weaknesses. The size can be prohibitive on some climbs. The weight can be a concern for long alpine routes.

The Supercam has not only met, but exceeded my expectations. Its reliability and ease of use make it an invaluable addition to my climbing rack. It gives me a sense of security.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Metolius Supercam is exceptional. The 6061-T6 aluminum is both lightweight and incredibly durable. The finish is smooth, and the construction is robust.

The design is inherently user-friendly. The camming action is smooth. The Kevlar trigger is comfortable to use.

There’s a minimal learning curve, even for those unfamiliar with large-format cams. A few practice placements are all that’s needed to become proficient. The cams are quick to place and remove.

Durability & Maintenance

The Metolius Supercam is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. The anodized finish protects the aluminum from corrosion and abrasion.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and lubrication are the only requirements. This ensures proper functioning.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Metolius Supercam comes with a handy anvil for maintaining the cam’s shape in your pack. This protects the cam’s shape from damage.

There aren’t many customization options available for the Supercam itself. However, it is compatible with a wide range of standard climbing carabiners and quickdraws. This allows climbers to tailor their setups to specific climbing styles and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Metolius Supercam

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Who Should Buy Metolius Supercam?

The Metolius Supercam is perfect for climbers who frequently encounter wide cracks, chimneys, and off-width sections on their routes. It is ideal for those who value bomber protection and reliability.

This product may not be the best choice for climbers who primarily focus on face climbing or routes with small, technical placements. Its size and weight would be a hindrance.

A must-have accessory for the Supercam is a high-quality carabiner. A strong quickdraw is also recommended for optimal clip-in performance.

Conclusion on Metolius Supercam

The Metolius Supercam is a specialized but invaluable piece of climbing gear. It excels at providing reliable protection in situations where standard cams are inadequate. Its robust construction, smooth action, and innovative features make it a top contender in the large-format cam market.

At $79.89, the price is justified by the Supercam‘s performance, durability, and the added confidence it provides on challenging routes. It’s an investment in safety and peace of mind.

I would personally recommend the Metolius Supercam to any climber who regularly tackles routes with wide cracks or chimneys. It is a game-changer. If you’re ready to expand your climbing capabilities and conquer those intimidating wide features, add the Metolius Supercam to your rack today.