What Makes Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm Stand Out?
In the world of climbing and mountaineering, trust is paramount. You need gear you can depend on with your life. The Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm is a deceptively simple piece of kit that plays a critical role in anchor building, extending protection, and personal safety. Mammut, a brand synonymous with quality and innovation in the alpine realm, offers this sling as a lightweight and durable solution for climbers of all levels. This review dives deep into its construction, performance, and overall value.
I was looking for a versatile and lightweight sling to supplement my existing rack for multi-pitch climbs. I wanted something that wouldn’t add significant weight but could reliably extend placements and equalize anchors.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the sling’s lightness. It felt almost weightless in my hand, yet the 8.0mm width gave it a reassuringly robust feel. The Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm also felt smooth to the touch, unlike some dyneema slings that can feel almost papery. The bright red color makes it easy to identify on my harness, which is a definite plus.
I considered the Black Diamond 18mm Nylon Runner and the Petzl Pur’Anneau. I chose the Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm for its lighter weight and the Mammut reputation for quality. I also liked that it’s made of a dyneema/nylon blend, offering a good balance of strength and abrasion resistance.
I was pleasantly surprised by the overall quality and feel. It exceeded my initial expectations for what I thought would be just another piece of webbing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm on a multi-pitch trad climb in the Shawangunks (the Gunks), NY. The varied terrain and exposure provided an excellent testing ground.
The sling performed flawlessly in dry conditions. Extending placements to reduce rope drag felt secure. Clipping into anchors and equalizing the load was quick and efficient.
The sling was easy to handle, even with gloved hands. I didn’t experience any fumbling or difficulty manipulating it. No issues or surprises arose during initial use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm has proven to be remarkably durable. It has shown minimal signs of wear and tear.
Despite being subjected to abrasion against rock, the sling’s fibers remain intact. The stitching is also holding up well.
Cleaning is easy: I simply hand wash it with mild soap and water. I dry the sling away from direct sunlight. It continues to perform as reliably as it did on day one. It definitely outperforms cheaper nylon slings that tend to fuzz up quickly.
Breaking Down the Features of Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm
Specifications
- The Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm has a width of 8.0mm. This provides a good balance of strength and weight.
- It has a length of 60cm, making it ideal for extending placements and building quick anchors.
- It is constructed from a blend of Dyneema and Nylon. This combination offers high strength and good abrasion resistance.
- The Sling’s Strength is rated to 22 kN (kiloNewtons). This is more than adequate for climbing applications.
- It is available in a bright red color, enhancing visibility. This helps in identifying it on your harness.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the sling’s safety, versatility, and longevity. A high breaking strength and abrasion-resistant material ensure reliability. A manageable length and bright color add convenience.
Performance & Functionality
The Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm excels at its primary function: extending placements and equalizing anchors. It inspires confidence in its strength and reliability.
The sling is lightweight, which is a significant advantage on long climbs. It integrates seamlessly into a climbing system. Its primary weakness is that it is only 60cm long which can be limiting in some situations where a longer sling might be more useful.
It meets and exceeds my expectations for a lightweight sling. Its durable construction and reliable performance make it a valuable addition to my climbing gear.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm has a simple, functional design. The blend of Dyneema and Nylon creates a smooth, supple feel that is easy on the hands.
The sling is lightweight and easy to handle. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm is built to last. The Dyneema/Nylon blend is highly resistant to abrasion.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water will keep it in good condition for years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm is a standalone product. There are no specific accessories or customization options available directly from Mammut.
However, it is compatible with a wide range of carabiners and other climbing hardware from various brands. Its versatility makes it easy to integrate into any climbing system.
Pros and Cons of Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm
Pros
- Lightweight: Doesn’t add noticeable weight to your rack, crucial for long climbs.
- High Strength: Rated to 22 kN, providing a safe and reliable anchor or extension.
- Durable: The Dyneema/Nylon blend resists abrasion and wear, ensuring longevity.
- Versatile: Suitable for extending placements, building anchors, and personal safety.
- Easy to Handle: Smooth texture and manageable length make it user-friendly.
Cons
- Limited Length: The 60cm length may not be sufficient for all situations.
- Not Adjustable: Unlike some other anchor systems, this sling offers no adjustability.
Who Should Buy Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm?
The Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm is perfect for climbers of all levels. Especially those who value lightweight gear and reliable performance. It’s also a great choice for mountaineers and alpine climbers.
Beginners might prefer slightly longer or adjustable slings for initial anchor learning. Climbers operating in environments demanding longer extensions should also look elsewhere.
A locking carabiner is a must-have accessory for use with this sling when building anchors. A good rope protector is also beneficial for protecting both the sling and your rope from sharp edges.
Conclusion on Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm
The Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm is a fantastic piece of climbing gear. It delivers exceptional value for its price.
The price is justified by its lightweight, strength, and durability. All critical features for climbing applications.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Mammut Contact Sling 8.0 60cm to any climber seeking a reliable and versatile sling. Add a few to your rack and climb on!