Brand: Petzl
Category: Belay & Rappel Devices
Recommended by Henry Ko, AMGA Certified Single Pitch Instructor — Boston, MA
Highlights: lightweight
The Petzl Reverso Belay Device in gray is a versatile and lightweight tool designed for climbers seeking reliability and performance. Its innovative design allows for seamless belaying and rappelling, making it an essential companion for both novice and experienced climbers. 1. Multifunctional design supports both belaying and rappelling for one or two climbers. 2. Constructed from durable aluminum, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear. 3. Weighs only 59 grams, making it an ideal choice for lightweight gear setups. 4. Features a unique auto-blocking mode for added safety during rappelling. 5. Compatible with a wide range of rope diameters, accommodating various climbing scenarios. 6. Ergonomic shape allows for easy handling and smooth rope control. 7. Anodized finish enhances corrosion resistance, suitable for outdoor use in diverse conditions. The Petzl Reverso Belay Device is perfect for cragging, multipitch climbing, and mountaineering adventures. It excels in environments where weight savings are crucial, such as alpine climbs or long routes. Ideal for climbers of all skill levels, this device is particularly beneficial for those who frequently switch between belaying and rappelling. Its robust design ensures reliable performance in various weather conditions, making it a year-round essential for climbing enthusiasts.
Price: $49.95
- Who it's for
- Multipitch climbers who need one device for lead belaying, guide-mode anchor belaying, and rappelling. Hosts frame it as a core piece of a multipitch kit rather than a casual single-pitch tool.
- What people are saying
- Hosts consistently praise the guide-mode eyelet alignment as a design edge over similar tube devices, and note it works reliably with skinnier ropes. One host flags a significant heat buildup during rappels as a real caution.
- Worth noting
- It is noted as the lightest guide-style device in its category. The heat warning on rappel is emphatic — handle with care on long descents.
Frequently asked questions
Who is the Petzl Reverso Belay Device for?
Multipitch climbers who need one device for lead belaying, guide-mode anchor belaying, and rappelling. Hosts frame it as a core piece of a multipitch kit rather than a casual single-pitch tool.
What do experts say about the Petzl Reverso Belay Device?
Hosts consistently praise the guide-mode eyelet alignment as a design edge over similar tube devices, and note it works reliably with skinnier ropes. One host flags a significant heat buildup during rappels as a real caution.
What should you know before buying the Petzl Reverso Belay Device?
It is noted as the lightest guide-style device in its category. The heat warning on rappel is emphatic — handle with care on long descents.
More from Henry Ko's AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Gear
View Henry Ko's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu
What other hosts are saying
6 experts recommend the Petzl Reverso Belay Device.
Clara Maynard, AMGA Apprentice Rock/Alpine Guide & Wilderness Medicine Instructor
Still autoblocks with skinnier ropes
Recommended in Crevasse Rescue
Teddy Dondanville, AMGA Assistant Rock Guide & Certified Single Pitch Instructor
The Reverso is my favorite tube-style device. What sets it apart from similar devices is that the “guide mode” eyelet is aligned with the two tubes. I prefer how this design positions the device when I am belaying in guide mode. The Reverso can do it all– lead belay, belay in guide mode, and rappel. This is a critical tool to have on your harness.
Recommended in Multi Pitch Kit
This is the lightest guide-style belay device (meaning you can clip it directly to an anchor and belay from above). It is a simple and a reliable design and one of the most popular out there. Be careful when rapelling, this thing gets HOT!!!!
Recommended in Multipitch
Brent Smith, AMGA Rock Guide and Apprentice Alpine Guide
A crucial part of the Multiptich kit, this device is primarily used for rappelling but can also be used to top-belay or ascend a rope
Recommended in Trad Climbing
My favorite tube-style belay device. I really like that the plaquette loop is oriented horizontally on this device.
Recommended in Rock Climbing
