Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13 Review

Let’s Dive into Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13

The Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13 is a quintessential piece of gear for any trad climber looking to build a solid, reliable rack. Manufactured by Black Diamond, these anodized aluminum stoppers, ranging from sizes 1 to 13, are designed to fit a wide array of cracks and placements, offering versatile protection on any climb. I was particularly drawn to this set for its reputation for durability and the wide range of sizes offered, ensuring I’d have the right piece for nearly any situation.

I decided to invest in the Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13 to replace a mishmash of older, less reliable nuts from various manufacturers. I was tired of the inconsistency in sizing and the questionable condition of some of my older pieces, and I needed a cohesive and dependable set. Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the quality of the anodization – each stopper was brightly colored and precisely machined. The weight felt substantial, but not overly heavy, suggesting a good balance between strength and portability.

I considered other nut sets from Metolius and DMM, but ultimately chose the Black Diamond set because of its reputation for durability and the slightly wider range of sizes included. The others seemed either too focused on smaller sizes or lacked the refined finish that the Black Diamond stoppers possessed. My initial impression was excitement – this set looked like it was built to last and ready for some serious abuse.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first put the Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13 to the test on a multi-pitch climb in the Shawangunks, known for its varied crack systems and demanding placements. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing the set’s placement and removal characteristics. I quickly discovered that the transverse taper design allowed for secure placements in both parallel-sided cracks and constrictions, a feature I immediately appreciated.

The anodized colors made selecting the right size stopper from the rack incredibly easy, even with gloved hands. The rounded edges of the larger stoppers, as advertised, aided in smoother removal after being heavily weighted, a welcome change from some of my older, more stubbornly placed nuts. There were no initial issues; the stoppers performed exactly as I hoped they would.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use in various climbing areas, from granite cracks in Yosemite to sandstone in Zion, the Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13 has proven to be remarkably durable. The aluminum heads show minimal signs of wear, even after numerous falls and placements in abrasive rock. The galvanized steel cables remain strong and flexible, with no signs of fraying or corrosion.

Maintenance is incredibly simple: a quick rinse with water after a day of climbing is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. Compared to my previous experience with less durable stoppers, the Black Diamond set significantly outperforms them in terms of longevity and reliability. I no longer worry about questionable placements failing prematurely.

Breaking Down the Features of Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13

Specifications

• Material: The stoppers feature durable aluminum heads, offering a good balance of strength and weight for secure placements. The galvanized steel cables provide robust and reliable connections to carabiners and slings.
• Sizes: The set includes stoppers numbered 1 through 13, covering a wide range of crack sizes, from finger-sized to larger hand cracks. This range is crucial for versatility on diverse climbs.
• Weight: The entire set weighs approximately 1 lb, making it relatively lightweight for a full set of nuts, important for long climbs where every ounce counts.
• Design: The transverse taper allows for sideways placements in flares and shallow seams. Rounded edges (on larger sizes) facilitate easy removal, while smaller sizes feature straighter edges for better surface contact.
• Anodization: Each stopper is anodized by size, making them quickly identifiable on the rack, even in stressful situations. This speeds up gear selection and placement.

Performance & Functionality

The Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13 excels in its primary function: providing reliable and secure protection in a variety of rock types and crack configurations. Their performance has been consistently impressive. The wide range of sizes ensures that there’s almost always a stopper that fits the available placement.

The strengths lie in their ease of placement, secure holding power, and relatively easy removal. A minor weakness is that the smaller sizes (1-3) can be a bit fiddly to place in very tight cracks, but this is typical of most small nuts. Overall, the set meets and often exceeds my expectations for a high-quality nut set.

Design & Ergonomics

The Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13 is thoughtfully designed with the climber in mind. The build quality is excellent, with smooth edges and precise machining that inspires confidence. The anodized finish not only looks good but also protects the aluminum from corrosion and wear.

The weight feels balanced and manageable on the harness, and the stoppers are easy to handle and manipulate even with gloves. There’s virtually no learning curve; experienced climbers will feel right at home with this set, while even beginners will find them intuitive to use.

Durability & Maintenance

Given my months of testing, I fully expect the Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13 to last for many years with proper care. The materials are robust and resistant to wear and tear.

Maintenance is minimal, usually just requiring a quick rinse and visual inspection for any damage after each climb. This set is designed for the long haul.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13 comes racked on an OvalWire carabiner, a convenient feature that keeps the set organized and ready to go. While there aren’t many direct customization options for nuts, they are fully compatible with a wide range of slings and carabiners from other brands.

Many climbers choose to add color-coded slings to each stopper for even easier identification, a popular modification. You could also replace the OvalWire carabiner with a lighter-weight option if desired.

Pros and Cons of Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13

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Who Should Buy Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13?

The Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13 is perfect for trad climbers of all levels, from beginners learning to build their first rack to experienced climbers seeking a reliable and versatile set. It’s also a great choice for alpine climbers where weight and durability are crucial.

This set might be overkill for climbers who primarily focus on sport climbing or bouldering, as nuts are not typically used in these disciplines. Beginners looking for a more budget-friendly option might also consider starting with a smaller set of nuts and expanding later. A must-have accessory is a good set of carabiners and slings to complement the stoppers.

Conclusion on Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13

Overall, the Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13 is an exceptional investment for any serious trad climber. Its durability, versatility, and ease of use make it a standout performer in the world of passive protection.

While the price is a bit higher than some alternatives, the quality and longevity of this set more than justify the cost. I wholeheartedly recommend the Black Diamond Stopper Set Pro #1-13 to anyone looking to build a reliable and dependable trad rack. Equip yourself with confidence and get out there and climb!