Let’s Talk About Metolius Bravo II Long Draw Carabiners
The Metolius Bravo II Long Draw Carabiners offer a lightweight and robust solution for extending protection placements in rock climbing. Metolius, a reputable name in climbing gear, designed these long draws to provide easy access to shoulder-length slings, mimicking the convenience of standard quickdraws. I wanted to find a system that allowed me to reduce rope drag and keep my placements cleaner and better aligned, without the fumbling often associated with traditional alpine draws.
My initial hands-on experience revealed a well-thought-out design. The carabiners felt sturdy and the 11 mm Metolius Monster Sling gave me confidence. Comparing the Bravo II to Black Diamond’s nylon runners and Petzl’s express slings, I was drawn to Metolius’s integrated system. I was initially excited by the color coding and potential for ease of use, hoping to streamline my gear and improve my climbing efficiency.
Real-World Testing: Putting Metolius Bravo II Long Draw Carabiners to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Metolius Bravo II Long Draw Carabiners on a multi-pitch climb at the New River Gorge in West Virginia. The varied terrain included both trad and sport climbing sections. The Bravo II’s performed well in the dry conditions, reducing rope drag on wandering routes.
The color-coded slings made identifying the correct length quick and intuitive on my gear loops. I had no problems clipping the carabiners, and their gate action was smooth and reliable. One small surprise was the sling material, it felt a little stiff initially but softened after a few uses.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Metolius Bravo II Long Draw Carabiners are holding up impressively well. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the slings and carabiners. I’ve mainly used them on granite and sandstone, both of which can be abrasive.
Cleaning is simple. I just wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime after use. Compared to my experience with using traditional nylon runners, the Bravo II’s maintain their shape and stiffness much better, making clipping easier.
Breaking Down the Features of Metolius Bravo II Long Draw Carabiners
Specifications
The Metolius Bravo II Long Draw Carabiners come in three lengths: 12″ (25.4 cm), 16″ (40.6 cm), and 20″ (50.8 cm). They weigh 2.5 oz. (71 g), 2.6 oz. (74 g), and 2.7 oz. (77 g) respectively. The 11 mm sling webbing connects the two Bravo II carabiners.
Each carabiner boasts a strength rating of 22 kN (4950 lbf). They are CE/UIAA certified, ensuring they meet stringent safety standards. Biner colors are unique to each length, making them easily identifiable. This matters because it gives you instant visual confirmation of which length you are grabbing, saving valuable time on the wall.
Performance & Functionality
The Metolius Bravo II Long Draw Carabiners perform their intended job of extending protection placements exceptionally well. They significantly reduce rope drag, which can make or break a difficult climb. The carabiners clip smoothly into bolts or protection, and the gate action is reliable.
While the sling material felt stiff initially, it has softened with use, improving the overall clipping experience. One minor point is that the carabiners are not particularly large, so climbers with larger hands may find them a little fiddly. Overall, however, they meet and exceed expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Metolius Bravo II Long Draw Carabiners feature a streamlined design. They strike a good balance between weight and strength. The color coding is a particularly useful design element.
The carabiners are comfortable to hold and clip. There’s no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Metolius Bravo II Long Draw Carabiners are built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure they can withstand the rigors of regular climbing use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Metolius Bravo II Long Draw Carabiners come as a complete unit, with the carabiners and sling pre-assembled. There are no additional accessories included, nor are there many customization options. The primary variation is in the length of the draw.
It’s possible to replace the carabiners with other models if desired, but the included Metolius Bravo II carabiners are well-suited to the task. They are compatible with standard climbing ropes and protection devices.
Pros and Cons of Metolius Bravo II Long Draw Carabiners
Pros
- Lightweight and strong design. The Bravo II’s are easy to carry without adding significant weight to your rack.
- Color-coded slings for easy identification. Quickly find the length you need on your gear loops.
- Reduces rope drag effectively. Makes climbing more efficient and enjoyable.
- Durable construction. Built to withstand regular use in various climbing environments.
- CE/UIAA certified. Ensures high safety standards.
Cons
- Carabiners might be small for climbers with larger hands.
- Sling material initially feels stiff.
Who Should Buy Metolius Bravo II Long Draw Carabiners?
The Metolius Bravo II Long Draw Carabiners are perfect for climbers who frequently tackle wandering routes, multi-pitch climbs, or trad routes where rope drag is a concern. They are suitable for both intermediate and advanced climbers. Climbers who want a lightweight and easy-to-use solution for extending placements will appreciate these long draws.
Beginner climbers might find the Bravo II’s slightly more expensive than standard quickdraws. Individuals who prioritize having the largest carabiners possible might also prefer other options.
Conclusion on Metolius Bravo II Long Draw Carabiners
The Metolius Bravo II Long Draw Carabiners are an excellent investment for climbers seeking to reduce rope drag and improve their climbing efficiency. They offer a great combination of lightweight design, robust construction, and user-friendly features. The price is justified by the improved climbing experience and added safety they provide.
I would personally recommend these long draws to any climber looking to upgrade their gear. If you are serious about climbing and want to make your routes smoother and more enjoyable, the Metolius Bravo II Long Draw Carabiners are a must-have. Go climb on!