Let’s Dive into Wild Country Climbing Rockcentric on Dyneema
The Wild Country Climbing Rockcentric on Dyneema is a modern take on a classic climbing protection device. This piece, from Wild Country Climbing, aims to blend the trusted Hexentric design with the more versatile geometry of a rock, offering climbers a lightweight and reliable option for passive protection.
I needed a set of lightweight, versatile pieces for multi-pitch climbs where every ounce counts. I was searching for something that could fit a wide range of placements, and the Rockcentric’s hybrid design seemed promising.
Unboxing the Rockcentric revealed a well-made piece. The aluminum felt solid and durable, and the color-coded Dyneema sling was a nice touch, immediately suggesting organized gear racking.
I considered Black Diamond Hexentrics and DMM Torque Nuts, but the Rockcentric’s lighter weight and unique geometry swayed me. The Hexentrics felt a bit bulky, and the Torque Nuts were pricier for a similar size range.
My initial impression was positive. The Rockcentric felt well-engineered and I was excited to test its placement versatility on the rock.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wild Country Climbing Rockcentric on Dyneema to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Wild Country Climbing Rockcentric on Dyneema on a granite multi-pitch climb in the Sierras. The climb offered a variety of placements, from constrictions to parallel-sided cracks.
The Rockcentric performed well in both dry and slightly damp conditions. The tapered side profile allowed for relatively easy placement and removal, even in tight spots.
There was a short learning curve, primarily figuring out the optimal orientation for each placement. However, after a few placements, the Rockcentric became intuitive to use.
One small issue I noticed was that the Dyneema sling could be a little slippery when wet. This made it slightly harder to handle when placing the gear quickly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Rockcentric is holding up well. The aluminum shows some minor scratches, but the Dyneema sling remains in good condition.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear, despite regular use on abrasive rock. The anodized finish seems to be protecting the aluminum effectively.
Maintenance is simple. I generally just wipe it down with a dry cloth after each climb to remove dirt and chalk.
Compared to my previous experiences with Hexentrics, the Rockcentric offers a more versatile and lightweight option. The unique geometry allows for more secure placements in a wider range of crack sizes and shapes.
Breaking Down the Features of Wild Country Climbing Rockcentric on Dyneema
Specifications
The Wild Country Climbing Rockcentric on Dyneema boasts impressive specifications. The material is aluminum, with a Dyneema sling.
The weight is listed at 5.5 oz, making it a relatively lightweight piece of protection. The impact force is 14 kN, providing a solid safety margin.
These specifications are important because they directly influence performance and safety. The lightweight design is crucial for long climbs, while the high impact force ensures reliable protection in the event of a fall.
Performance & Functionality
The Wild Country Climbing Rockcentric on Dyneema excels in its intended job. It provides a secure and reliable placement in a wide variety of cracks.
The strengths lie in its versatility and ease of use. The weakness is that it may not be as bomber as a cam in certain situations.
It meets my expectations for a lightweight and versatile piece of passive protection. It’s a solid addition to my trad rack.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The materials feel durable and the construction is solid.
The Rockcentric is user-friendly, though it takes a little practice to master the different placement options. The color-coded Dyneema sling aids in quick identification on the gear sling.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rockcentric is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Keeping it clean and inspecting it regularly for wear and tear are the only necessary steps.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rockcentric comes with a 12mm dyneema sling. There aren’t many customization options for passive protection, but the racking carabiner is often a personal preference.
The Rockcentric is compatible with standard climbing carabiners. No special accessories are required.
Pros and Cons of Wild Country Climbing Rockcentric on Dyneema
Pros
- Lightweight design is ideal for long climbs.
- Versatile geometry fits a wide range of placements.
- Dyneema sling is durable and color-coded for easy identification.
- Easy to place and remove, even in tight spots.
- Solid construction and durable materials.
Cons
- Dyneema sling can be a little slippery when wet.
- May require some practice to master optimal placement techniques.
Who Should Buy Wild Country Climbing Rockcentric on Dyneema?
The Wild Country Climbing Rockcentric on Dyneema is perfect for trad climbers, alpine climbers, and multi-pitch climbers looking for a lightweight and versatile piece of protection. This is also suitable for climbers looking to expand their passive protection options.
Beginner climbers might find cams easier to use initially, but experienced trad climbers will appreciate the versatility of the Rockcentric. Climbers heavily focused on aid climbing might want more specialized gear.
A good set of racking carabiners is a must-have accessory. A nut tool will also be useful for cleaning placements.
Conclusion on Wild Country Climbing Rockcentric on Dyneema
The Wild Country Climbing Rockcentric on Dyneema is a well-designed and reliable piece of climbing protection. Its versatility and lightweight design make it a valuable addition to any trad climber’s rack.
The price of $9.63 is justified by the quality and performance. It offers excellent value for the money.
I would definitely recommend the Rockcentric to any climber looking for a lightweight and versatile piece of passive protection. Add this gem to your climbing kit and see for yourself.