PETZL BASIC Climbing Ascender - Compact & Versatile Rope Clamp The PETZL BASIC is a compact and highly versatile rope clamp (ascender) designed for efficient and reliable rope ascents. This indispensable tool is perfectly suited for arborists, rescue professionals, cavers, and rope access technicians across the UK who require a simple yet effective device for upward movement on ropes, certified to CE EN 567 and UIAA. Ergonomically designed, the BASIC fits well in the hand, allowing for a secure and comfortable grip during rope ascents. Its robust construction ensures dependable performance in various demanding environments. A key feature for enhanced functionality is its large lower attachment hole. This generous opening is specifically designed to accept carabiners for both a lanyard and a footloop, allowing for a complete and efficient ascent system. This integrated design simplifies rigging and ensures all necessary components can be easily connected. Key Features & Benefits Compact ascender with excellent grip Can be used for rope ascent on a fixed line or as progress capture in a hauling system Toothed cam with self-cleaning slot optimises performance under any conditions (frozen or muddy ropes) Stainless steel cam has better resistance to corrosion Lower attachment hole large enough for two carabiners (lanyard and foot loop) Upper connection hole for guiding the rope Technical Details Certification CE EN 567, UIAA Material Aluminium frame, stainless steel cam, nylon safety catch Weight 85g Rope Compatibility 8mm-11mm Why Choose the PETZL BASIC? Some ascenders pack in features you'll never use on a straightforward climb; the BASIC does the opposite, keeping the design simple and lightweight while still handling frozen or muddy rope conditions thanks to the self-cleaning cam slot. That simplicity is exactly what makes it dependable across such a wide range of uses, from arborist climbing to caving and rope access work. Certified Protection Explained CE EN 567 is the European standard for mountaineering rope clamps, and UIAA certification adds international mountaineering federation recognition, confirming the BASIC's strength and reliability for rope ascent applications. Also Known As Also searched for as: Petzl Basic ascender, Petzl rope clamp, compact rope ascender, Petzl B18 ascender. FAQs What rope diameters is this compatible with? 8mm to 11mm. Can this be used for hauling systems as well as ascending? Yes, it can be used for rope ascent on a fixed line or as progress capture in a hauling system. How does it perform in frozen or muddy conditions? The toothed cam has a self-cleaning slot designed to optimise performance in frozen or muddy rope conditions. Can I attach a lanyard and foot loop at the same time? Yes, the lower attachment hole is large enough for two carabiners, one for a lanyard and one for a foot loop. How much does it weigh? 85g.