Features: Black Diamonds new ATC-XP is a true variable-friction belay and rappel device. What’s this mean in plain English? Well, with the ATC-XP, a climber can control how much friction they want while belaying or rapping, which in turn means greater control with multiple rope diameters. Ice climbing with an 8.1-mm rope? Use the ATC-XP in high-friction mode, pulling the rope over the ATC-XP’s contoured teeth. Abseiling with a fuzzy 11-mm down a granite slab? Use the device in regular-friction mode. An extended central web keeps biners and ropes properly oriented and reduces kinking. An added bonus is the thick rope-bearing radii of the ATC-XP which means ropes wear less and last longer. Belay/rappel device with exceptional holding power Great for use with ropes of different diameters—8.1–11 mm Thick rope-bearing radii reduce rope wear