Brand: Petzl
Category: Carabiners
Recommended by Doug Dobkowski, Outdoor Educator, Guide — North Conway, NH
Highlights: lightweight, belay device, locking
The Petzl Sm'D Screw-Lock Carabiner in vibrant orange combines a compact, asymmetrical D profile with robust strength, making it an essential tool for climbers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its lightweight design and secure locking mechanism ensure reliability during tactical challenges and while attaching multiple devices. 1. Compact Design: Asymmetrical D profile reduces weight without compromising strength, enhancing portability. 2. Screw-Lock Mechanism: Provides added security, preventing accidental openings during use. 3. Lightweight Construction: Weighs only 70 grams, making it ideal for extended outdoor activities. 4. High Strength Rating: Boasts a major axis strength of 23 kN, ensuring durability under extreme conditions. 5. Versatile Use: Suitable for a variety of applications, including climbing, mountaineering, and tactical operations. 6. Bright Orange Color: Enhances visibility in outdoor environments, making it easy to spot among gear. 7. Easy to Handle: Designed for smooth clipping and unclipping, even with gloves on. The Petzl Sm'D Screw-Lock Carabiner is designed for climbers, mountaineers, and outdoor adventurers seeking a reliable and lightweight carabiner for various activities. It performs best in rugged environments, such as climbing routes, alpine expeditions, and tactical operations. Ideal for users of all skill levels, this carabiner excels in scenarios requiring secure attachments, such as belaying or connecting gear. Its lightweight nature makes it a perfect companion for seasonal climbing trips and outdoor adventures year-round.
Price: $25.95
Doug Dobkowski's review
I like D-shaped locking carabiners for most things I need a locking carabiner for. The design of D-shaped locking carabiners lines the load up with the spine of the carabiner, which is the strongest part of the carabiner. I have one dedicated to clip my belay device to the anchor when belaying from above. I also use it to clip my 3rd hand to my harness when rapelling. I usually bring two of these when multi-pitch climbing. I prefer a screw gate when multi-pitch climbing because I worry about dropping an auto-locking carabiner while fiddling with the mechanism. I like the Sm'D because it is a light weight locking carabiner and is just big enough to take a clove hitch or a munter hitch.
Recommended by Doug Dobkowski, Outdoor Educator, Guide
Frequently asked questions
What does Doug Dobkowski say about the Petzl Sm'D Screw-Lock Carabiner?
I like D-shaped locking carabiners for most things I need a locking carabiner for. The design of D-shaped locking carabiners lines the load up with the spine of the carabiner, which is the strongest part of the carabiner. I have one dedicated to clip my belay device to the anchor when belaying from above. I also use it to clip my 3rd hand to my harness when rapelling. I usually bring two of these when multi-pitch climbing. I prefer a screw gate when multi-pitch climbing because I worry about dropping an auto-locking carabiner while fiddling with the mechanism. I like the Sm'D because it is a light weight locking carabiner and is just big enough to take a clove hitch or a munter hitch.
Why does Doug Dobkowski recommend Petzl?
Doug Dobkowski recommends the Petzl Petzl Sm'D Screw-Lock Carabiner for carabiners. I like D-shaped locking carabiners for most things I need a locking carabiner for. The design of D-shaped locking carabiners lines the load up with the spine of the carabiner, which is the strongest part of the carabiner. I have one dedicated to clip my belay device to the anchor when belaying from above. I also use it to clip my 3rd hand to my harness when rapelling. I usually bring two of these when multi-pitch climbing. I prefer a screw gate when multi-pitch climbing because I worry about dropping an auto-locking carabiner while fiddling with the mechanism. I like the Sm'D because it is a light weight locking carabiner and is just big enough to take a clove hitch or a munter hitch.
Is the Petzl Sm'D Screw-Lock Carabiner a good carabiner?
Yes — Doug Dobkowski recommends the Petzl Sm'D Screw-Lock Carabiner by Petzl as their carabiners pick. I like D-shaped locking carabiners for most things I need a locking carabiner for. The design of D-shaped locking carabiners lines the load up with the spine of the carabiner, which is the strongest part of the carabiner. I have one dedicated to clip my belay device to the anchor when belaying from above. I also use it to clip my 3rd hand to my harness when rapelling. I usually bring two of these when multi-pitch climbing. I prefer a screw gate when multi-pitch climbing because I worry about dropping an auto-locking carabiner while fiddling with the mechanism. I like the Sm'D because it is a light weight locking carabiner and is just big enough to take a clove hitch or a munter hitch.
More from Doug Dobkowski's Multipitch
View Doug Dobkowski's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu
What other hosts are saying
5 experts recommend the Petzl Sm'D Screw-Lock Carabiner.
Clara Maynard, AMGA Apprentice Rock/Alpine Guide & Wilderness Medicine Instructor
I like the red safety indicator and these tend to freeze up for me a lot less than other carabiners. Great for racking traxion & tibloc.
Recommended in Crevasse Rescue
Spencer Huffman, Rock and Alpine Guide | Climbing Instructor and Coach
The connect anything to anything else carabiner! Not great for munters, but perfect for everything else. Auto-lockers preferred - set it and forget it!
Recommended in Basic Outdoor Kit
Michael Murphy, Rock Climbing Instructor and Business Owner
I use a twist lock Sm'D as my carabiner for attaching my plaquette to the anchor.
Recommended in Guide Kit
Chris Johnson, Apprentice Climbing Guide, Professional Ski Patroller
I really like Petzl's locking carabiners. The Sm'D is a great carabiner to pair with your GriGri. It's small, has a smooth action, and comes in a few variants. I love my Twist-Lock versions, but would recommend the Screw-Lock option for newer climbers. This will get you into the habit of confirming your lockers are, in fact, locked.
Recommended in First Climbing Purchases
