CurSedVoyce, I look forward to a little review of the CMI ascender if you don't mind. I like the price point compared to the petzl.
Until Stephen has a chance to give his new CMI double handle a few test runs, which I too will look forward to, I can offer this:
Ergonomically, I think it's about a wash with Petzl ascenders. The handles accomodate large hands well, though with thick gloves some might find the space a little snug...but that's a problem most handled ascenders share. I much prefer the CMI milled body over Petzl's stamped and folded plate stock...admittedly a personal quibble that few bother about.
For whatever reason, CMI redesigned the cam latch mechanism from that used on the venerable Ultracender model...those were much easier to thumb the cam with, and this new version has the release tab sticking way out where it can much more easily be snagged. I have heard of some climbers shortening it to reduce the possibility of accidental release...I have not, but still might.
Last, I like the somewhat less aggressive teeth on the cam that CMI uses, relative to those on the Petzl ascenders. A bit less snaggy at picking the rope, and don't wear the rope as much.
I use my CMI double handle in my slightly modified version of Sherrill's Tree Frog ascender system. Here's a link to a thread with discussion and pictures from a while back, if you're interested.
https://www.masterblasterhome.com/showthread.php?9950-B-s-version-of-Sherrill-s-Tree-Frog&