C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams Review

Let’s Dive into C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams

The C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams are a unique and intriguing piece of climbing protection. Manufactured by C.A.M.P., these devices utilize a patented camming design combined with a durable nylon sling, offering a compelling alternative to traditional cams and nuts in certain placements. Their ability to function both as a cam and a chock makes them a versatile addition to any climber’s rack.

I sought out the C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams to address the limitations I often encountered with standard cams in horizontal cracks and odd-shaped placements. I wanted a piece that could fit where nothing else would, offering secure and reliable protection in less-than-ideal scenarios. The promise of a high breaking strength and unique camming action piqued my interest.

Upon unboxing, the C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams immediately struck me as different from any other protection piece I’d handled. They are surprisingly lightweight and the nylon sling feels robust. The camming action is smooth and the overall build quality appears solid, though the design definitely requires some initial familiarization.

Compared to traditional camming units from brands like Black Diamond or Metolius, the C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams are noticeably simpler in design. They don’t have the range of a modern cam but their hybrid cam/chock functionality offers a unique advantage. Compared to standard nuts, the Tricams seemed more secure in certain placements due to the camming action. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – intrigued by the unique design, but also aware that mastering their placement would require practice and understanding.

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Real-World Testing: Putting C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams at a local crag known for its varied rock types and unconventional crack systems. I specifically targeted horizontal cracks, constrictions, and shallow pockets where traditional cams struggled to find purchase. The initial placements took some getting used to.

The performance in dry conditions was generally good, with the C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams biting firmly into the rock when properly placed. In wet conditions however, I noticed a slight reduction in friction, making solid placement even more critical. The ease of use definitely required a learning curve. Figuring out the optimal camming angle and ensuring proper seating took time and careful observation. After the first few placements, I developed a feel for their nuances. A particular surprise occurred when I realized how well a smaller Tricam worked in a shallow pocket.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams have proven to be surprisingly durable. There is minimal wear and tear on the nylon slings, and the camming action remains smooth. A little dirt and grime accumulated, but cleaning them was relatively straightforward.

The C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams still require careful placement. They are not as forgiving as some other protection options. They have outperformed my initial expectations in terms of reliability. The nylon slings have held up exceptionally well to abrasion and repeated use.

Breaking Down the Features of C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams

Specifications

• Manufacturer: C.A.M.P. is known for lightweight and innovative climbing equipment.
• Fabric/Material: Nylon Sling ensures strength and durability.
• Size 0.125: White, 10-15 mm, Cam 4 kN, Chock 2 kN, 9 g, 0.32 oz. This micro-sized Tricam is ideal for thin cracks and shallow pockets.
• Size 0.25: Black, 13.5-25 mm, Cam 7 kN, Chock 4 kN, 19 g, 0.67 oz. A versatile size for small cracks and constrictions.
• Size 0.5: Pink, 16-28 mm, Cam 9 kN, Chock 6 kN, 26 g, 0.92 oz. Suitable for a wider range of placements, offering a good balance of size and strength.
• Size 1.0: Red, 20-30 mm, Cam 9 kN, Chock 8 kN, 35 g, 1.24 oz. Another versatile size, slightly larger than the 0.5.
• Size 1.5: Brown, 26-38 mm, Cam 14 kN, Chock 12 kN, 50 g, 1.76 oz. Provides increased strength for more challenging placements.
• Size 2.0: Purple, 29-41 mm, Cam 14 kN, Chock 12 kN, 55 g, 1.94 oz. A commonly used size for a variety of crack widths.
• Size 2.5: Blue, 32-48 mm, Cam 17 kN, Chock 14 kN, 77 g, 2.72 oz. Offers a high breaking strength for demanding situations.
• Size 3.0: Navy, 38-54 mm, Cam 17 kN, Chock 14 kN, 90 g, 3.18 oz. Ideal for larger cracks where solid camming action is needed.
• Size 3.5: White, 41-60 mm, Cam 17 kN, Chock 16 kN, 117 g, 4.13 oz. Provides excellent security in wider placements.
• Size 4.0: Green, 45-64 mm, Cam 17 kN, Chock 16 kN, 138 g, 4.87 oz. A robust option for large cracks, offering reliable protection.
• Size 5.0: Orange, 57-89 mm, Cam 22 kN, Chock 22 kN, 120 g, 4.23 oz. A large size with a high breaking strength.
• Size 6.0: Yellow, 73-105 mm, Cam 18 kN, Chock 18 kN, 200 g, 7.06 oz. Designed for very wide cracks and unusual placements.
• Size 7.0: Gold, 92-140 mm, Cam 16 kN, Chock 16 kN, 264 g, 9.31 oz. The largest Tricam, intended for extremely wide features.

Performance & Functionality

The C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams function effectively as both cams and chocks. The camming action, when properly executed, provides a secure and reliable hold. Their primary strength lies in their ability to fit in horizontal cracks and constrictions where traditional cams struggle.

Their weakness is that it takes practice to be proficient at placing them. They do meet the high expectations once you get past the learning curve.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams is simple and straightforward. The nylon sling is comfortable to handle and the overall weight is minimal. There is a learning curve associated with placement.

Durability & Maintenance

The C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams are durable and require minimal maintenance. The nylon slings are resistant to abrasion, and the camming mechanism is relatively simple to clean. With proper care, they should last for many years of use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams do not come with any specific accessories. There are no customization options available. Their simplicity is part of their appeal.

Pros and Cons of C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams

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Who Should Buy C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams?

The C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams are perfect for trad climbers who frequently encounter horizontal cracks, constrictions, and other challenging placements. They are a valuable addition to any rack, offering a unique solution for difficult protection scenarios. Climbers looking to expand their protection options and tackle challenging routes will benefit most.

Those who should skip this product are primarily beginner climbers who are still learning the fundamentals of gear placement. Sport climbers who primarily climb bolted routes would also not find this tool useful. A must-have accessory would be a good nut tool to help clean the placements.

Conclusion on C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams

The C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams are a unique and valuable addition to any climber’s protection arsenal. They offer a versatile solution for challenging placements where traditional cams and nuts may not work. While they require a learning curve, the benefits of their camming and chock functionality, lightweight design, and durability make them a worthwhile investment.

The price is justified given their unique capabilities and long-lasting performance. I would absolutely recommend them to any climber looking to expand their protection options and tackle challenging routes. Add the C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams to your rack and experience the difference they can make on your next climb!