ISC Aluminum HMS Carabiner

The ISC aluminum HMS carabiner is a pear-shaped auto-locking connector with a wide end that suits hitches, rope and multiple attachments. It is a versatile all-round carabiner for a climbing kit.

Why an HMS shape

HMS carabiners have a wide end that gives rope and hitches room to sit and turn. That makes them handy for tying in a friction hitch, connecting a lanyard, or building an anchor with more than one item in the basket.

The aluminum body keeps weight low on a crowded saddle, and the wide gate opening is easy to clip with gloves. Many climbers keep a couple of HMS carabiners for general connections and use ovals for pulleys.

The HMS is also a handy connector for a lanyard snap point or for clipping a rope bag to a saddle loop on the walk in. Retire any aluminum carabiner that has been dropped onto a hard surface from height, shows deep grooves, or has a gate that no longer snaps shut on its own. Keep a spare in the truck.

Use and inspection

Keep loads along the spine and avoid letting items rest across the gate. Check the strength markings and that the gate type meets your system's requirements.

Carabiners in a climbing system are life-support gear. Use only connectors rated for the purpose, follow ANSI Z133 and the maker's instructions, load them along the major axis, and inspect the gate, spring and body before each use. See more auto-locking carabiners.