Let’s Dive into Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw
The Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw promises a lightweight and smooth climbing experience. Mad Rock designed this draw as a downsized version of their Ultra Tech, aiming for near-ultralight carabiner weight. Let’s see if it lives up to the hype in a world where every gram counts on demanding climbs.
I’ve been searching for a lighter quickdraw option for multi-pitch climbs without sacrificing durability or ease of use. My old draws are reliable, but they feel like boat anchors after a few pitches. I needed something that wouldn’t weigh me down without compromising security.
Upon opening the package, I immediately noticed the vibrant blue and orange color scheme. The carabiners feel surprisingly solid for their weight, and the keylock system looks promising for snag-free clipping. The dogbone feels durable and the overall construction seems well-executed.
Compared to my Black Diamond Freewire quickdraws, the Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw feels noticeably lighter in hand. I also considered the Petzl Spirit Express, but the price point of the Mad Rock draw was more appealing for a full rack replacement. My first impression is positive – I’m excited to see how these perform on the rock.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw on a sunny day at the local crag, specifically on a mix of sport routes and trad climbs. The routes involved sandstone and some granite, presenting varied rock textures. The weather was dry and warm, perfect for climbing.
The quickdraws performed admirably in dry conditions. The keylock system made clipping bolts and cleaning routes much smoother compared to my old wiregate draws. The bent gate on the rope end allowed for effortless rope clipping, even when pumped.
I found the initial learning curve minimal. The quickdraws felt intuitive to use, and the keylock system quickly became second nature. There were no immediate issues or surprises during the first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. They’ve been used on various rock types, including limestone and quartzite, across multiple climbing areas. There was even an unexpected rain shower during one climb!
I’ve noticed minimal wear and tear on the carabiners and dogbone. The anodizing on the carabiners is holding up well, and the dogbone shows no signs of fraying or abrasion. These draws seem built to withstand the rigors of regular climbing.
Cleaning the quickdraws is simple; a quick rinse with water and a scrub with a soft brush is usually sufficient. The keylock system prevents debris from accumulating in the gate mechanism. It’s much easier to care for these than I expected!
Compared to my previous quickdraws, the Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw definitely outperforms in terms of weight and ease of clipping. The keylock system is a game-changer, eliminating frustrating snags and improving overall climbing efficiency. They have exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw
Specifications
- The Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw features a Super Tech Bent gate carabiner on the rope end and a Super Tech Straight gate carabiner on the bolt end. The keylock system on both carabiners ensures smooth clipping and unclipping.
- It utilizes a 4″ (10 cm) x 10mm Dyneema dogbone. The Dyneema construction makes it lightweight and incredibly strong.
- The Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw weighs in at a mere 3 oz (85g). This lightweight design significantly reduces weight on your harness.
- The length of the quickdraw is 10 cm. This provides ample length for most climbing situations.
- The open gate strength is 8 kN. While not the highest rating, it is still sufficient for most climbing applications.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the weight, durability, and ease of use of the quickdraw. The lightweight design reduces fatigue on long climbs, while the keylock system enhances clipping efficiency. The 10cm length allows for versatility in placements.
Performance & Functionality
The Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw performs its job effectively, providing a secure and efficient connection between the rope and the bolt. The keylock system eliminates snagging, while the bent gate allows for easy rope clipping. It excels in all aspects of climbing performance.
The strength lies in the smooth clipping and lightweight design. The weakness is the relatively low open gate strength (8kN) compared to some other quickdraws on the market. It meets expectations for a lightweight and functional quickdraw, but falls short of being a heavy-duty workhorse.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw is excellent, using high-quality aluminum for the carabiners and durable Dyneema for the dogbone. The draw feels comfortable in hand, with a well-designed shape that facilitates easy clipping. It feels solid despite its light weight.
The quickdraw is very user-friendly. The keylock system requires no learning curve, and the bent gate is intuitive to use. Even beginners will find these easy to handle.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw should last for many years of regular use. The aluminum carabiners and Dyneema dogbone are highly durable materials. They seem built to last.
Maintaining the quickdraw is straightforward. Regular cleaning with water and a soft brush is sufficient. No specialized tools or procedures are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw does not come with any additional accessories beyond the standard carabiner and dogbone setup. There are no customization options available directly from Mad Rock. You could, however, replace the dogbone with a longer or shorter option from another brand if desired.
The Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw is compatible with most standard climbing ropes and bolt hangers. The carabiner gate openings are designed to accommodate a wide range of climbing equipment. This ensures versatility in use.
Pros and Cons of Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw
Pros
- Incredibly lightweight design makes it ideal for multi-pitch climbs and reducing overall gear weight.
- Keylock system eliminates snagging and provides smooth clipping and unclipping.
- Bent gate carabiner on the rope end allows for effortless rope clipping, even when pumped.
- Durable Dyneema dogbone ensures long-lasting performance.
- Affordable price compared to other lightweight quickdraws with similar features.
Cons
- Open gate strength of 8 kN is lower than some other quickdraws on the market.
- Limited customization options compared to other brands.
Who Should Buy Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw?
The Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw is perfect for climbers looking to reduce weight on their harness without sacrificing durability and functionality. It is well-suited for multi-pitch climbs, alpine adventures, and sport climbing where weight is a concern. Trad climbers will also appreciate the smooth clipping action.
Beginners might also find these appealing due to their ease of use. Climbers who prioritize high open gate strength or extensive customization options should skip this product. Those pushing their limits on extreme climbs may want something with a higher kN rating.
A gear sling to keep your draws organized is a must-have. Consider a chalk bag to improve grip and a good pair of climbing shoes for optimal performance. These are crucial add-ons for any climber.
Conclusion on Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw
The Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw is a solid choice for climbers seeking a lightweight and functional quickdraw at an affordable price. The keylock system is a standout feature, providing smooth and efficient clipping. While the open gate strength is lower than some competitors, it is still sufficient for most climbing applications.
The price is definitely justified considering the performance and weight savings you get. It offers excellent value for money. I would personally recommend the Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraw to any climber looking to upgrade their gear.
Ready to lighten your load and climb more efficiently? Grab a set of Mad Rock Super Tech Keylock Quickdraws and experience the difference!