Easy large lever release. Ergonomic design for comfort. Additional carabiner loop at the top decreases the chance of accidents. Cam teeth for increased grip Security in wet conditions.

Cons

May be too bulky to carry around as a back-up ascender.

Best Bang for the Buck

New Doar

Hand Ascender

Best for Small Jobs

Simple hand ascender for smaller climbs and especially for handyman tasks around the house, boat, or tree stand.

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Best for Small Jobs

Bottom Line

Simple hand ascender for smaller climbs and especially for handyman tasks around the house, boat, or tree stand.

Pros

Lightweight for easy transport. Fits easily in a pocket, glove compartment, or toolkit. Rubber handle for comfort and protection. Long lasting and weather resistant. Useful for sustained tasks.

Cons

Catch spikes may cause damage to the user’s rope, if activity is sustained for long periods.

Wild Country

Ropeman 1 Ascender

Simple Yet Solid

Lightweight ascender useful for making long climbs or belaying to and from a hunting tree stand.

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Simple Yet Solid

Bottom Line

Lightweight ascender useful for making long climbs or belaying to and from a hunting tree stand.

Pros

Stainless steel axel and cable leash for increased strength. Alloy side plates for durability. Light and multifunctional. Can be kept easily in a back pocket when hunting. Easy release action for ease of use.

Cons

New users may take some time adjusting to descending settings.

Black Diamond

Index Ascender

Easiest to Use

Index finger trigger is easy to use and low effort, especially for small hands.

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Easiest to Use

Bottom Line

Index finger trigger is easy to use and low effort, especially for small hands.

Pros

Index finger trigger for smoother transfers and increased control on low pitches. Index finger trigger mimics action of trigger pull for easier releases. Can keep 1 hand free while releasing. Available for both right handed and left handed climbers.

Cons

Index finger trigger release may be unfamiliar to experienced climbers who are making the transition from established models.

Grivel

Up and Down Ascender

Most Versatile

Sturdy yet comfortable ascender that doubles as a descender for trips up and back down.

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Most Versatile

Bottom Line

Sturdy yet comfortable ascender that doubles as a descender for trips up and back down.

Pros

2-in-1 ascender/descender design for less equipment. Built-in belay plate for versatility on complicated climbs. Ideal for switching between ascents and descents. Form fitting rubber grip for additional comfort.

Cons

Teeth will wear out your rope, so back up supplies are recommended.

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First Reviewed

September 23, 2021

Models
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Hours
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