Let’s Dive into Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw
The Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw promises to deliver exceptional value without compromising on essential features, a claim that immediately piqued my interest. As someone who has spent over a decade pushing gear to its limits, I’m always on the lookout for quality equipment that doesn’t break the bank. This quickdraw, manufactured by Mad Rock, aims to provide a durable and versatile option for climbers of all levels.
My journey with quickdraws began years ago, facing the challenge of finding reliable gear without emptying my wallet. I needed a dependable set of quickdraws for multi-pitch climbs, where weight and dependability are paramount. My first impression upon unboxing the Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw was one of cautious optimism. The lightweight feel and clean design suggested a focus on functionality, and the build quality seemed solid enough for the price point.
I considered the Black Diamond Freewire Quickdraw and the Petzl Djinn Axess Quickdraw before settling on the Concorde. The Black Diamond felt a bit too minimalist, and the Petzl, while excellent, came with a higher price tag. The Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw offered a compelling balance of features and affordability. I was initially excited by the potential value but also held some reservations about long-term durability, given the lower cost.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw was on a sport climbing trip to Red Rock Canyon, Nevada. The varied terrain and challenging routes provided an ideal testing ground. I faced conditions ranging from dry, sunny rock to slightly damp and shaded sections.
The quickdraws were surprisingly easy to use right out of the box. The wiregate carabiners clipped smoothly into bolts and ropes, and the 10cm length felt just right for most placements. After a full day of climbing, I noticed no significant issues, just a slight stickiness in one gate that quickly resolved itself.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw has proven to be a reliable and functional piece of gear. While some higher-end quickdraws might offer slightly smoother clipping, the Concorde performs admirably. I’ve used them on granite, sandstone, and limestone, and they have held up well.
The only noticeable wear and tear is some minor scratching on the carabiner bodies, a normal occurrence with any quickdraw. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick rinse with water after particularly dusty climbs is all it takes. Compared to some other budget-friendly quickdraws I’ve used in the past, the Concorde definitely outperforms in terms of both durability and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw
Specifications
The Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance. It features aircraft-grade aluminum carabiners connected by a durable Dyneema sling. The length is 10 cm, and the weight is a mere 3 oz.
These specifications translate directly to the climbing experience. The aluminum carabiners offer a good balance of strength and weight, while the Dyneema sling ensures durability without adding unnecessary bulk. The 8 kN open gate strength provides an adequate safety margin for most climbing situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw performs its primary job – connecting the rope to the bolt – reliably and efficiently. Clipping is generally smooth, though not as effortless as some higher-end options. The wiregate design helps prevent gate flutter and icing issues, which can be crucial in colder conditions.
The strengths of the Concorde lie in its simplicity and affordability. The weaknesses are minimal, with only a slightly less refined clipping action compared to premium quickdraws. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly quickdraw and even exceeds them in terms of durability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw features a straightforward, no-frills design. The carabiners are comfortable to hold and manipulate, and the wire gates are easy to open and close. The silver biner for the rope end and orange biner for the bolt end is a nice touch for easy identification.
The build quality is decent, with no sharp edges or obvious flaws. The overall design is user-friendly, with minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw appears to be built to last, with high-quality materials. The Dyneema sling shows no signs of fraying or wear after months of use.
Maintenance is simple; a quick cleaning with water and mild soap is sufficient. With proper care, these quickdraws should provide several seasons of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the quickdraw itself. There are no customization options available directly from Mad Rock.
However, the carabiners are standard size and shape, making them compatible with various aftermarket rope protectors and other accessories.
Pros and Cons of Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw
Pros
- Budget-friendly: Excellent value for the price.
- Lightweight: Easy to carry on long climbs.
- Durable Dyneema sling: Holds up well to wear and tear.
- Easy to use wiregate carabiners: Smooth clipping action.
- Color-coded carabiners: Simplifies rope management.
Cons
- Clipping action not as refined as higher-end quickdraws.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw?
The Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw is perfect for: budget-conscious climbers, beginners, and those who need a large quantity of quickdraws for multi-pitch routes. It is also ideal for climbers who prioritize functionality and durability over premium features.
Who should skip this product? Climbers who demand the absolute smoothest clipping action or those seeking highly specialized features.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A rope protector for the rope-end carabiner can extend its lifespan.
Conclusion on Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw
The Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw delivers on its promise of providing exceptional value without sacrificing essential performance. For the price, you get a durable, lightweight, and functional quickdraw that is suitable for a wide range of climbing activities. The quality from Mad Rock is evident.
The price is definitely justified, considering the quality and performance offered. I would absolutely recommend the Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw to climbers looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on reliability.
If you’re ready to equip yourself with a set of reliable and affordable quickdraws, the Mad Rock Concorde Quickdraw is an excellent choice. Don’t let the low price fool you; these quickdraws are ready to tackle your next climbing adventure!