Black Diamond Camalot Z4 Review

Let’s Talk About Black Diamond Camalot Z4

The Black Diamond Camalot Z4 is more than just a cam; it’s a testament to Black Diamond‘s commitment to pushing the boundaries of climbing gear innovation. This single-stem cam, born from collaboration with top trad climbers, promises a revolutionary experience with its patent-pending RigidFlex stem, offering rigidity in-hand and flexibility once placed. It’s a piece of gear that aims to redefine trust and confidence on the wall.

I’ve been searching for a cam that minimizes walking while offering precise placement in tricky, directional cracks. My old cams, while reliable, sometimes shift, leading to unnecessary mental strain on lead. The Black Diamond Camalot Z4 with its RigidFlex stem seemed like it could address this perfectly.

Unboxing the Camalot Z4, I immediately noticed the refined construction and the reassuring feel of the sandblasted lobes. The action is smooth, and the weight feels optimized for carrying a full rack. The Dynex sling’s unique color scheme is a welcome touch, making it easy to differentiate sizes on the go.

Compared to my older Camalot C4s, the Z4‘s head width is noticeably narrower, reminiscent of the older C3 design. While the C4s offer bomber placements in parallel cracks, they can be too wide for tighter, more technical placements where the Z4 should shine. Compared to a Metolius Master Cam, which I also considered, the Z4 appeared to have a slightly more robust feel to the lobes, potentially offering greater security in softer rock.

My initial impression was one of excitement and anticipation. The Camalot Z4 feels like a well-thought-out piece of gear designed to inspire confidence and tackle the most challenging placements. The RigidFlex stem is intriguing, and I was eager to see if it lives up to the hype in real-world climbing scenarios.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Black Diamond Camalot Z4 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Black Diamond Camalot Z4 was at a local granite crag known for its varied crack systems. I specifically targeted routes with tricky, constricting placements where traditional cams often struggle. The weather was dry, with a slight breeze – ideal conditions for testing new gear.

The Z4 performed remarkably well from the start. The narrow head width allowed for precise placements in constrictions, and the RigidFlex stem did indeed seem to minimize walking. The cam stayed put even when pulled directionally, instilling a sense of security that allowed me to focus on the climbing.

The Z4 requires a slightly different placement technique than traditional cams. The rigidity in-hand feels initially strange, but you quickly adapt to the feel and appreciate the precision it offers during placement. There were no major issues, although I did find myself double-checking the placement of the smaller sizes more frequently out of habit.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Black Diamond Camalot Z4 continues to impress. I’ve used it on everything from long multi-pitch routes to short, powerful sport climbs that require gear for certain sections. The cams have held up admirably, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.

The sandblasted lobes exhibit some cosmetic scratches, but this is to be expected with any frequently used cam. The stem and trigger mechanism remain smooth and responsive. Cleaning the Z4 is straightforward; a quick rinse with water and a brush is usually sufficient.

Compared to my experiences with other single-stem cams, the Camalot Z4 offers a noticeable improvement in placement stability and overall confidence. My old cams seemed to wander more easily, especially in horizontal placements, leading to a constant need for readjustment. The Z4 addresses this issue effectively, making it a valuable addition to my rack.

Breaking Down the Features of Black Diamond Camalot Z4

Specifications

• RigidFlex Stem: The patent-pending RigidFlex stem is the defining feature, staying rigid in-hand for easy placement but flexing once placed to reduce walking. This dual nature is crucial for secure placements in directional cracks.
• Dual Twisted Cable Construction (Larger Sizes): Larger sizes utilize dual twisted cable construction, which provides uniform flex in all directions. This ensures consistent performance regardless of the placement angle.
• Single Cable Construction (Smaller Sizes): Smaller sizes implement single cable construction to avoid buckling when pulling hard on the trigger and to reduce trigger profile. The smaller sizes need to be compact and resist deformation when loaded.
• Narrow Head Width: Similar to the Camalot C3, the narrow head width allows for placements in tight spots. It enables placements in constrictions that other cams would simply be too wide for.
• Sandblasted Lobes: The sandblasted lobes enhance friction and holding power on various rock types. This improves security, especially on slick or polished surfaces.
• Dynex Sling: The lightweight yet durable Dynex sling features a unique color scheme for easy identification. This adds to ease of use, allowing faster gear selection.

These specifications combine to create a cam that is both versatile and confidence-inspiring. The Black Diamond Camalot Z4 is designed to perform reliably in a wide range of climbing situations.

Performance & Functionality

The Black Diamond Camalot Z4 excels at its primary function: providing secure and stable placements in a variety of crack systems. The RigidFlex stem truly makes a difference, minimizing walking and instilling confidence.

The cam’s action is smooth and responsive, allowing for precise placements even in awkward positions. Its strengths lie in its ability to fit in tight constrictions and to maintain its position under directional pulls. One potential weakness is that some climbers might initially find the feel of the RigidFlex stem unfamiliar, requiring a short adjustment period.

The Z4 meets and even exceeds my expectations for a single-stem cam. It offers a level of security and stability that surpasses my previous experiences.

Design & Ergonomics

The Black Diamond Camalot Z4 boasts excellent build quality. The materials used feel durable and well-chosen, striking a good balance between weight and strength. The cam is comfortable to handle, and the trigger action is smooth and intuitive.

The design is user-friendly, although the RigidFlex stem might require a brief learning curve for some. Once you adapt to the feel, placing the cam becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Black Diamond Camalot Z4 appears to be a durable piece of gear that should last for many seasons with proper care. The materials are high-quality, and the construction seems robust.

Maintenance is relatively simple. Regular cleaning with water and a brush is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Black Diamond Camalot Z4 comes with a Dynex sling and is ready to use out of the box. There are no specific customization options offered by Black Diamond, but climbers can replace the sling if needed.

The Z4 is compatible with standard carabiners and quickdraws from various brands. Many climbers use different colored carabiners to further differentiate cam sizes on their rack.

Pros and Cons of Black Diamond Camalot Z4

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Who Should Buy Black Diamond Camalot Z4?

The Black Diamond Camalot Z4 is perfect for trad climbers who frequently encounter tricky, directional placements. Climbers looking to upgrade their rack with a cam that offers enhanced stability and security will also benefit.

This product might not be ideal for beginners who are just starting to build their trad rack. Simpler, more forgiving cams might be a better starting point. A must-have accessory would be a selection of high-quality carabiners.

Conclusion on Black Diamond Camalot Z4

The Black Diamond Camalot Z4 is an exceptional piece of climbing gear that delivers on its promises. The RigidFlex stem is a game-changer.

The price is justified considering the performance benefits and enhanced security it offers.

I would absolutely recommend the Black Diamond Camalot Z4 to any serious trad climber looking to improve their rack. It’s a valuable investment that will boost your confidence and performance on the wall. Go send that project!