Fixe Steel Rope Draw NTN15260 Review

First Impressions of Fixe Steel Rope Draw NTN15260

The Fixe Steel Rope Draw NTN15260 promises durability and longevity, crucial for fixed gear in both indoor and outdoor climbing environments. Coming from Fixe, a brand known for their climbing hardware, this draw aims to withstand the relentless abuse that bolted routes often endure. I was particularly interested in testing its resistance to wear from repeated use and exposure to the elements.

As someone who’s been climbing for over a decade, I’ve seen countless quickdraws fail due to corrosion, abrasion, or simple metal fatigue. I was on the hunt for a draw that would stand the test of time, especially for those frequently-used routes at my local crag. The steel construction of the Fixe Steel Rope Draw NTN15260 immediately caught my attention, as it seemed like a significant upgrade from the standard aluminum draws.

Upon receiving the draw, I was immediately struck by its robust feel. The steel carabiners, even the wiregate version, felt substantially heavier than their aluminum counterparts. The build quality appeared solid, with clean welds and a smooth finish on the steel. While I considered other options from Petzl and Black Diamond, the Fixe offering specifically targeted the durability issue I was facing with fixed lines, making it the more attractive choice.

I was excited to see how this draw would perform in real-world scenarios, particularly in high-traffic areas where gear takes a beating. Initial impressions were positive, suggesting a long-lasting and reliable piece of climbing equipment, but I knew the true test would be time and exposure. I was eager to get it out on the rock and see if it lived up to its promise.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Fixe Steel Rope Draw NTN15260 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Fixe Steel Rope Draw NTN15260 at a popular limestone crag known for its sharp rock and sunny exposure. I used it on several routes, clipping and unclipping frequently to simulate typical wear and tear. The draw felt secure and the carabiners clipped smoothly, even with slightly gritty ropes.

The conditions were dry and warm, typical for this crag, providing a good baseline for performance. The wire gate carabiner version I tested felt particularly easy to clip, even one-handed, which is crucial when you’re pumped and reaching for the next hold. There were no immediate issues with the draw; it performed as expected, offering a solid and reliable connection.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Fixe Steel Rope Draw NTN15260 has proven its durability. There are minimal signs of wear on the carabiners, even after repeated use on abrasive rock. The steel construction has resisted corrosion, despite exposure to rain and humidity during several climbing sessions.

Maintenance has been minimal; I simply wipe down the draws with a damp cloth after use to remove dirt and grime. The draw has noticeably outperformed my previous aluminum draws, which showed significant wear and tear after a similar period. The Fixe Steel Rope Draw NTN15260 has exceeded my expectations, proving to be a reliable and long-lasting piece of climbing equipment.

Breaking Down the Features of Fixe Steel Rope Draw NTN15260

Specifications

The Fixe Steel Rope Draw NTN15260 is available in three lengths: 8″, 11″, and 14″. It comes with the option of a wire gate or keylock steel carabiner. The weight varies depending on the carabiner type: 81 grams for the 8″ draw (no carabiner weight listed), 208 grams for the 8″ draw with a wire gate, and 236 grams for the 8″ draw with a keylock.

The draw itself has a strength rating of 22kN. The keylock carabiner boasts a strength of 35kN, while the wire gate carabiner is rated at 30kN. The product description also explicitly notes that a quick link is NOT included.

Performance & Functionality

The Fixe Steel Rope Draw NTN15260 excels in providing a durable and secure connection point for climbing ropes. The steel carabiners offer superior resistance to wear and tear compared to aluminum alternatives. The keylock carabiner option further enhances safety by preventing snagging on the rope or harness.

The primary strength is its robust construction, making it ideal for fixed gear applications. A potential weakness is the increased weight compared to aluminum draws, which could be a concern for climbers prioritizing weight savings on long routes. The draw meets expectations for durability and safety, but its weight might be a drawback for some users.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Fixe Steel Rope Draw NTN15260 is excellent, using high-quality steel for both the carabiners and the dogbone. The draw feels solid and dependable in hand. There is no significant learning curve; it functions similarly to standard quickdraws.

The steel construction adds noticeable weight, which may affect comfort for some climbers, especially on longer routes requiring multiple draws.

Durability & Maintenance

Due to its steel construction, the Fixe Steel Rope Draw NTN15260 should last significantly longer than aluminum draws, especially in harsh environments. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and grime. The steel is resistant to corrosion, further extending its lifespan.

The Fixe Steel Rope Draw NTN15260 is designed for long-term use and minimal maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Fixe Steel Rope Draw NTN15260 does not come with any additional accessories beyond the carabiners and dogbone. Customization options are limited due to the steel construction, but users can potentially replace the carabiners with other compatible steel carabiners if desired. Compatibility with accessories from other brands is generally good, as long as the replacement carabiners meet the required strength and safety standards.

Pros and Cons of Fixe Steel Rope Draw NTN15260