Let’s Dive into C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws
The C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws promise a lightweight yet robust solution for climbers seeking high performance. C.A.M.P. advertises these draws as optimized for both bolt-end clipping ease and rope-end clipping bliss, featuring a solid gate Photon carabiner on one end and a Photon Wire carabiner on the other. The variable-width dogbone and Karstop Evo carabiner retainer are also touted as key features.
As a seasoned climber with over a decade of experience, I was drawn to these quickdraws by the promise of a lightweight and smooth-clipping experience, especially on long sport routes where every gram counts. My aging shoulders appreciate any weight reduction I can achieve. Upon unboxing the C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws, I was immediately struck by how light they felt in my hand. The combination of the solid gate and wire gate carabiners seemed well-balanced, and the build quality appeared excellent.
Compared to my existing set of Black Diamond Freewire quickdraws and Petzl Spirit Express quickdraws, the C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws were noticeably lighter and seemed to offer a more refined clipping action. The Freewires are durable but can feel a bit clunky. The Petzl Spirits are smooth but slightly heavier. I hoped the C.A.M.P. draws would offer a sweet spot between weight, durability, and ease of use.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The light weight and streamlined design definitely excited me, but I knew the true test would come on the rock. I couldn’t wait to see if the C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws would live up to the hype and become my new go-to draws for sport climbing.
Real-World Testing: Putting C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws at Rifle Mountain Park in Colorado, a renowned sport climbing destination known for its steep limestone and challenging routes. The conditions were dry and sunny, perfect for pushing the draws to their limits. I clipped the draws on a variety of routes, ranging from 5.10 to 5.12, focusing on observing the clipping action and overall feel.
The Photon Wire carabiner on the rope end lived up to its billing, offering incredibly smooth and effortless clipping. The wire gate’s light action and large gate opening made it easy to get the rope in, even in awkward positions. The solid gate Photon carabiner on the bolt end also clipped smoothly, although it didn’t feel quite as effortless as the wire gate. There were no initial issues, and I was impressed with the overall performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws have held up remarkably well. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the carabiners, and the dogbones remain in excellent condition. I clean them periodically with warm water and mild soap to remove dirt and grime, which is a simple and straightforward process.
Compared to my previous experiences with other quickdraws, the C.A.M.P. draws have exceeded my expectations in terms of weight and clipping ease. The durability has also been impressive. They have become my preferred quickdraws for most sport climbing applications.
Breaking Down the Features of C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws
Specifications
- The Photon Mixed Express KS features a combination of a straight gate Photon carabiner on the bolt end and a Photon Wire carabiner on the rope end, optimized for function. This mixed configuration delivers a balanced solution for easy clipping and rope handling.
- The Photon carabiner is C.A.M.P.’s lightest solid gate carabiner, incorporating the SphereLock closure for secure and easy clipping. The SphereLock closure minimizes gate flutter and reduces the chance of accidental opening.
- The Photon Wire carabiner features a finely contoured, perfectly tensioned gate and a large gate opening for superior clipping performance. Its lightweight design minimizes weight on the rope.
- Variable width polyester dogbones are easy to grab while projecting sport routes. The varying width provides a comfortable grip for clipping into anchors and pulling up on the draw.
- The proprietary Karstop Evo carabiner retainer on the rope end secures the carabiner in the correct orientation. This feature prevents cross-loading and ensures proper clipping.
- Available in 11 and 18 cm lengths. These lengths offer versatility for different climbing situations.
These specifications contribute to the quickdraw’s overall performance by providing a lightweight, durable, and easy-to-use system. The mixed carabiner configuration, SphereLock closure, and Karstop Evo retainer enhance both safety and efficiency on the wall.
Performance & Functionality
The C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws perform exceptionally well in their intended purpose. The clipping action is smooth and reliable, making them a joy to use on the rock. The lightweight design is a significant advantage on long routes, reducing fatigue and improving overall performance.
The strengths of these quickdraws lie in their lightweight design, smooth clipping action, and durable construction. A potential weakness might be the relatively high price point compared to some other quickdraws on the market. Overall, the C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws meet and even exceed expectations for a high-performance quickdraw.
Design & Ergonomics
The C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws boast excellent build quality, using high-quality materials that feel both lightweight and durable. The carabiners are comfortable to hold and manipulate, and the dogbone provides a secure grip. There is no noticeable learning curve; these draws are incredibly user-friendly and intuitive to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws appear to be built to last, with durable carabiners and a robust dogbone. With proper care and maintenance, these quickdraws should provide years of reliable service. Cleaning is simple, requiring only warm water and mild soap.
Accessories and Customization Options
The C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws are primarily designed as a complete system and do not offer extensive customization options. However, the carabiners can be replaced if needed, allowing users to customize the quickdraw with different carabiner types or colors. They are compatible with most standard-sized climbing ropes and bolt hangers.
Pros and Cons of C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws
Pros
- Extremely lightweight, reducing fatigue on long climbs.
- Smooth and effortless clipping action, especially on the rope end.
- Durable construction, built to withstand regular use.
- Karstop Evo carabiner retainer prevents cross-loading.
- Variable width dogbone provides a comfortable and secure grip.
Cons
- Relatively high price point compared to some other quickdraws.
- Solid gate carabiner, while smooth, does not clip quite as effortlessly as the wire gate.
Who Should Buy C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws?
The C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws are perfect for sport climbers who prioritize lightweight performance and smooth clipping action. They are ideal for climbers tackling long routes or projects where every gram counts. Climbers looking to upgrade from heavier, less refined quickdraws will also appreciate the benefits of these draws.
Those who should skip this product are budget-conscious climbers who are just starting out. There are more affordable options available that still offer decent performance. Also, climbers who primarily engage in trad climbing may prefer quickdraws with longer dogbones for better rope management.
A must-have accessory would be a carabiner brush to keep the gates clean and functioning smoothly. Rope protectors can also extend the life of the dogbones.
Conclusion on C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws
The C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws are an excellent choice for climbers seeking a lightweight, high-performance quickdraw. While the price point is higher than some competitors, the superior clipping action, durable construction, and weight savings justify the investment for serious sport climbers. I personally recommend these quickdraws and have made them a staple in my climbing gear.
If you’re looking to elevate your climbing experience with a set of quickdraws that offer a noticeable performance advantage, the C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws are definitely worth considering. Go ahead and give them a try – you won’t be disappointed.