Probably there will never be a "best" mechanical device, just like there is no best friction hitch nor friction cord. Just perpetual evolution.
Big rainstorm here today, so I chose not to climb. A few thoughts, though.
Totally agree, Cory. Only a best for each individual, and even if there is a "best," it's only a fleeting moment before someone comes along with a "better" one. It's been fun for me to see the rapid changes in gear and styles since 2007, when I started climbing. Back then the local shop sold screwgate biners. Not many people working SRT. In 2012 at the International TCC here in Portland, you couldn't use a rope wrench. Kinda crazy to me, since most of us know what a solid device it is. There are still tree companies here in Portland today that do not allow SRT. I can only scratch my head on that one.
I remember quietly watching Kevin show some climbers at the Charlotte TCC (2009, I think) the F8 concept. Some of the guys were pretty excited about it, and I got a kick out of watching the whole thing. That, of course, led to the wrench and then the rope runner. Now, there's the Akimbo, and I'm sensing the same excitement from people here who have only seen a picture on the internet. I see it as the next best thing, taking into consideration that Paul or Kevin, or somebody else, might be working on the next "better" thing.
What do I like about the Akimbo? First thing is the small size, then the looks. Bear in mind, this is only a prototype, hand cut in a shop, with whatever nuts, bolts and screws were available at the local ACE or McMaster-Carr. Those of you who build or modify stuff will appreciate how difficult it can be, for example, just to find a certain screw in a certain size and a certain material.
Next, I like that it is midline attachable. I really like that you can put it on rope while it's attached to your harness. Will I ever need to do that? I don't know, but I like the option. It's completely self-contained. No parts to drop or lose. No tools needed to adjust anything. With the earlier version I climbed on in May, I had to bring two wrenches with me. I REALLY like that it has a tending ring, that it is centered on the device, and that it's big enough to clip in with a regular sized carabiner. OK, I've rattled on enough. A few cons tomorrow or the next night.
Did I mention it works?
. Been playing a bit with the akimbo. It's pretty sweet, I do have to say.
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. worked very well, moved and released well. a tad jerky on descent but not bad
