What are descent and belay devices (hereinafter referred to as DBD) and what are they used for? Devices designed for descent (rappel) on a rope and for belaying a person climbing. DBD provide the ability to fully control these processes. They are used in rock climbing, mountaineering, mountain tourism, caving, industrial mountaineering, etc. Nowadays, we come across more and more different belay and descent devices in stores. But each device has its own characteristics. Therefore, we have prepared a short video lecture for you, where you can get acquainted with the main types of DBD in more detail, learn how they differ and where they are used. Brief information is provided in the text. Watch, listen and remember! The figure eight is the simplest and relatively inexpensive descent device, it is easy to refuel, it is possible to descend on a double rope of any diameter, it works well with dirty and icy ropes. Despite the advantages of the figure eight, it is a device that quickly spoils the rope because it constantly twists and tangles it. When descending or belaying, especially for a beginner, you need to be extremely careful and hold the rope tightly, since the figure eight does not provide sufficient friction when falling. It is the best device in high-altitude mountaineering and mountain tourism. Compared to the basket, the figure eight is usually heavier. The basket is a plate with two deep slots, a cable and one or two rings to ensure automatic blocking. They are very compact and lightweight, it is possible to work with both one and two ropes, the descent is easier to control, they do not twist the rope, unlike the figure eight. The downside of baskets is that it will be much more difficult to work with dirty or icy ropes, and the rope diameter should be no more than 11 mm (the optimal diameter is from 8.5 mm to 10.5 mm). The basket is used in mountaineering, rock climbing, and mountain tourism. It is the most versatile SSU, so it is better for beginners to master the basic techniques of belaying and descending on a regular basket. Automatic SSU are devices that are triggered by mechanisms inside the device itself. In the event of a fall, the SSU itself locks, without requiring any effort from the belayer to stop the fall, the main thing is not to let go of the rope. The rope is released easily and smoothly. This device is considered the safest for beginners, but requires more time to get acquainted and practice. Automatic SSU are much more expensive and heavier than the same basket or figure eight. They do not allow the use of more than one rope, the diameter of which should be from 8.5 mm to 11 mm. The effectiveness of such devices quickly decreases if the rope is dirty, wet or icy. Most often used in rock climbing. Important! When working with any SSU, never let go of your hand from the unloaded end of the rope! Choose the appropriate option on the website and in the stores of the network: https://vk.cc/cxdwe1