Let’s Talk About Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw
The Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw is designed for climbers who prioritize weight savings and versatility in their gear. Edelrid offers this quickdraw in two lengths, catering to different climbing styles and preferences. It promises a lightweight construction paired with reliable functionality, making it a potential asset for alpine adventures and trad climbs.
I was in the market for new quickdraws, specifically extendable ones, to replace my aging set for multi-pitch trad routes. I needed something that would minimize weight on long approaches and provide flexibility in gear placement to reduce rope drag. The Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw seemed to fit the bill with its emphasis on lightweight design and extendable sling.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was positive; the quickdraw felt incredibly light, which is a significant advantage for long climbs. The carabiners had a smooth action, and the sling felt durable despite its thin profile. The silver and oasis color scheme is aesthetically pleasing and makes the quickdraw easy to spot on my harness.
Compared to my old Black Diamond Oz quickdraws and a friend’s Petzl Ange Finesse draws, the Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw felt noticeably lighter and more compact. While the Black Diamond Oz draws are similarly lightweight, the Edelrid offering, particularly the extendable version, provided superior versatility. I chose this one primarily for the extendable sling and the promise of weight reduction.
My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of caution. I was eager to test its performance on the rock, but also aware that extremely lightweight gear sometimes comes with compromises in durability. The Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw needed to prove itself in real-world climbing scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw on a multi-pitch trad climb in the Shawangunks, New York. The climb involved traversing sections and exposed placements, making extendable draws crucial for managing rope drag. The 60 cm extendable version was especially helpful on wandering routes, allowing me to create longer runners and minimize rope drag.
The conditions were mostly dry, but the rock was somewhat polished in places, which demanded careful gear placement. The Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw performed admirably; the keylock carabiners were easy to clip, even in awkward positions. I found the smooth action of the gates essential for quick and efficient placements.
The quickdraw was intuitive to use, and the extendable sling made lengthening placements simple, even with gloves on. I appreciated the ease of extending the draw, which saved energy on a long day of climbing. There was virtually no learning curve.
My initial concern about the lightweight construction proved unfounded. The quickdraw felt solid and dependable during the climb. The only minor issue was that the HMPE sling felt a bit slippery when trying to grab it with sweaty hands, but this was easily mitigated with a solid grip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use on various rock types, including granite and limestone, the Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw has held up remarkably well. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the carabiners or the sling. The anodized finish on the carabiners is still intact.
The quickdraw is surprisingly durable, given its lightweight design. The carabiners have shown no signs of bending or deformation, even after several whippers. The Dyneema® sling on the 60 cm version remains strong, with no visible fraying or damage.
Cleaning the Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw is straightforward. A simple rinse with water and a soft brush is sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I have been careful to avoid using harsh chemicals, as these could degrade the sling material.
In comparison to my older quickdraws, the Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw outperforms them in terms of weight, versatility, and ease of use. The extendable sling has proven invaluable on meandering routes. I am confident in its reliability and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Edelrid.
- Color: Silver/Oasis.
- Length: Available in 14 cm with a 15/22 mm HMPE sling, and 60 cm with an 8 mm Dyneema® sling.
- The lightweight construction is ideal for reducing weight on long routes. This is especially important on alpine climbs where every ounce counts.
- The 60 cm extendable version provides versatility in gear placement to reduce rope drag. This feature is beneficial for traversing sections and wandering routes.
- The HMPE and Dyneema® slings are strong and durable, ensuring reliable performance. These materials are known for their high strength-to-weight ratio.
- Keylock closure mechanism on the carabiners allows for easy clipping and unclipping. This smooth action is essential in stressful climbing situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw performs exceptionally well in its intended purpose. Its lightweight design and extendable sling provide unmatched versatility and ease of use on the rock. It allows for efficient gear placement and rope management, ultimately enhancing the climbing experience.
The quickdraw’s strengths lie in its weight, extendability, and ease of clipping. A potential weakness is that the thin sling might feel slippery to some users, though this can be overcome with a firm grip. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a lightweight extendable quickdraw.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw is impressive. The materials are high-quality, and the construction feels solid. The weight is remarkably low, making it comfortable to carry a full rack of these quickdraws.
The quickdraw is user-friendly, with an intuitive design and easy-to-operate carabiners. There is virtually no learning curve; it is ready to use straight out of the box. The keylock gate design prevents snagging on ropes and gear loops.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw is built to last. The high-quality materials and construction suggest a long lifespan, even with regular use. Careful handling and proper storage will further extend its longevity.
Maintaining the quickdraw is simple; regular cleaning with water and a soft brush is sufficient. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could degrade the sling material. Inspect the carabiners and sling regularly for signs of wear and tear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw comes as a complete set, including two carabiners and a sling (either 15/22 mm HMPE or 8 mm Dyneema®). There are limited customization options available, but the quickdraw is compatible with most standard climbing harnesses and gear loops.
While there aren’t specific accessories designed exclusively for the Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw, the carabiners can be used with other climbing gear. The extendable sling can be replaced if necessary, but the original Edelrid sling is highly recommended for optimal performance. Note that because the carabiners are standard size, they will work perfectly with belay devices from other leading brands such as Petzl, Black Diamond, and Trango.
Pros and Cons of Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw
Pros
- Extremely lightweight construction: Reduces weight on long climbs, enhancing endurance.
- Extendable sling: Provides versatility in gear placement and reduces rope drag.
- Keylock closure mechanism: Allows for easy and snag-free clipping and unclipping.
- Durable materials: HMPE and Dyneema® slings ensure reliable performance.
- Easy to use: Intuitive design with no learning curve.
Cons
- Sling may feel slippery to some users, particularly when wet.
- Lightweight construction might raise concerns about long-term durability for some climbers.
Who Should Buy Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw?
The Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw is perfect for:
- Alpine climbers who need to minimize weight on long approaches.
- Trad climbers who require versatile gear placement to reduce rope drag.
- Multi-pitch climbers who appreciate lightweight and easy-to-use equipment.
Those who should skip this product:
- Climbers who prioritize maximum durability over weight savings.
- Beginner climbers who may prefer more substantial and easier-to-grip slings.
A must-have accessory for this quickdraw is a good rope protector to minimize wear and tear on the rope when used on abrasive rock. Also, a gear sling to keep the quickdraws organized on your harness is highly recommended.
Conclusion on Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw
The Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw is an excellent choice for climbers seeking a lightweight and versatile quickdraw for alpine and trad climbing. Its extendable sling and easy-to-use carabiners make it a valuable asset on the rock. The Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw is an excellent piece of climbing gear that helps climbers enjoy their passion to the fullest extent possible.
The price of $25.49 is justified given the high-quality materials, innovative design, and performance benefits. It offers a solid value proposition for climbers who prioritize weight savings and versatility. Edelrid has truly produced a superior product.
I would personally recommend the Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw to any climber looking to upgrade their gear with a lightweight and reliable option. Go ahead, clip in and experience the difference!