First Impressions of Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner
The Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner is an all-around workhorse designed for climbing, mountaineering, and any activity that requires a reliable and easy-to-use connector. Edelrid, a German manufacturer known for its quality climbing gear, aims to deliver a robust and versatile carabiner. Its keylock closure and H-profile construction promise optimal handling and weight savings.
I was looking for a replacement carabiner for my quickdraws. My old ones were getting sticky and the gates weren’t closing as smoothly as they used to.
Upon opening the package, the Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner felt solid and well-constructed. Its smooth, clean lines and the Oasis color were aesthetically pleasing. The biner felt lightweight, but not flimsy, instilling a sense of confidence. Compared to some of my older, bulkier carabiners, the Pure Bent III seemed much more refined.
While I considered the Black Diamond HotForge Bent Gate and the Petzl Spirit Bent Gate, the Edelrid Pure Bent III stood out because of Edelrid’s reputation for durability and its attractive price point. I was particularly intrigued by the keylock closure system, hoping it would eliminate the snagging I’ve experienced with other carabiners. I was definitely excited to try it out!
Real-World Testing: Putting Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner at my local climbing gym, The Gravity Vault. I used it on a variety of routes, both lead and top-rope, to get a feel for its handling and performance. The gym offered different wall angles and holds, providing a good initial testing ground.
The Pure Bent III performed admirably. The bent gate made clipping ropes a breeze, even when pumped. The carabiner’s action felt smooth and fluid, inspiring confidence. I didn’t experience any fumbling or missed clips, which was a definite improvement over my old carabiners.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner has become a staple in my climbing kit. I’ve taken it on several outdoor climbing trips, including to the Shawangunk Ridge (the Gunks) in New York and Red Rocks in Nevada. It has held up exceptionally well to the rigors of outdoor climbing.
The carabiner shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The anodized finish has proven durable, resisting scratches and scuffs. The gate still snaps closed crisply and reliably, even after exposure to dirt, sand, and the occasional rain shower. Cleaning has been simple – a quick rinse with water and a bit of lubricant on the gate pivot point keeps it functioning smoothly. The Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner is a noticeable upgrade from my previous carabiners. It’s lighter, stronger, and more user-friendly.
Breaking Down the Features of Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner
Specifications
The Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. Its bent gate design facilitates easy rope clipping, while its keylock closure prevents snagging on ropes or gear loops. The carabiner features an H-profile construction, optimizing strength-to-weight ratio.
Weight: The Pure Bent III is surprisingly lightweight, minimizing added weight to your rack.
Material: Made from high-strength aluminum alloy, ensuring durability and longevity.
Breaking Strength (Major Axis): 23 kN – provides a substantial margin of safety in most climbing scenarios.
Breaking Strength (Minor Axis): 8 kN – still offers reasonable strength when loaded across the gate.
Breaking Strength (Open Gate): 9 kN – an important safety consideration if the gate is unintentionally open during a fall.
Gate Opening: 21 mm – provides ample space for clipping ropes of various diameters. These specifications matter because they directly impact the carabiner’s safety, usability, and overall performance on the rock.
Performance & Functionality
The Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner excels in its primary function: securely connecting ropes and gear. Its smooth gate action and snag-free keylock nose make clipping and unclipping a breeze. The bent gate enhances clipping speed and efficiency, particularly on overhanging routes.
The carabiner’s strength ratings inspire confidence, reassuring the user that it can withstand the forces encountered in climbing. While I haven’t personally tested its breaking strength to its limits, I trust Edelrid’s reputation for quality and rigorous testing. The only minor area for improvement would be a slightly wider gate opening, as some thicker ropes can be a bit snug. Overall, the Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner meets and exceeds my expectations for a high-quality climbing carabiner.
Design & Ergonomics
The Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and aesthetics. The H-profile construction not only reduces weight but also enhances strength and rigidity. The smooth, rounded edges prevent rope wear and facilitate smooth handling.
The bent gate is ergonomically shaped for easy manipulation, even with gloved hands. There is no significant learning curve. It feels natural and intuitive right from the start.
Durability & Maintenance
The Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner is built to last. Its high-quality aluminum alloy construction and durable anodized finish ensure long-term resistance to wear and tear. With proper care and maintenance, this carabiner should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with water and a bit of lubricant on the gate pivot is all that’s required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner does not come with any specific accessories. It is designed to be a standalone connector. There are no customization options available beyond color choice (Oasis).
It is fully compatible with standard climbing ropes, quickdraws, and other climbing gear. Its versatility makes it a valuable addition to any climber’s rack.
Pros and Cons of Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner
Pros
- Easy clipping: The bent gate design makes clipping ropes exceptionally easy and efficient.
- Keylock Closure: The keylock closure eliminates snagging and simplifies unclipping.
- Lightweight and Strong: The H-profile construction provides an excellent strength-to-weight ratio.
- Durable Construction: High-quality materials and a robust design ensure long-lasting performance.
- Smooth Operation: The gate action is consistently smooth and reliable.
Cons
- Gate Opening:* The gate opening could be slightly wider to accommodate thicker ropes more easily.
- Limited Customization: No customization options are available.
Who Should Buy Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner?
Perfect for: Sport climbers, trad climbers, mountaineers, and anyone who values a reliable, easy-to-use carabiner. This is a great all-around carabiner that will be useful for a wide variety of climbing and rigging applications.
Who should skip this product? Those looking for specialized carabiners for specific applications (e.g., auto-locking carabiners for belaying) might find the Pure Bent III too general-purpose.
Must-have accessories or modifications? None are absolutely essential. However, a good quickdraw set would be an excellent companion to the Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner.
Conclusion on Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner
The Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner is a fantastic all-around carabiner that delivers exceptional performance at a reasonable price. Its smooth gate action, snag-free keylock nose, and durable construction make it a joy to use.
At $10.99, the price is more than justified, given its quality and versatility. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner to any climber or outdoor enthusiast looking for a reliable and easy-to-use connector. Upgrade your rack with the Edelrid Pure Bent III Carabiner and experience the difference!