Locking Snap Hooks & Rope Snaps

Buying guide

Snap hooks vs carabiners

Many climbers prefer a snap hook on the end of a flipline or lanyard because it is quick to clip and unclip with one hand, and its shape sits well on a saddle D-ring without rolling. Carabiners have larger gate openings and handle more types of connection. Both are common in tree work; what matters is that any snap hook in a life-support role is self-closing and self-locking with at least two deliberate actions to open, as ANSI Z133 calls for.

Old-style single-action snaps, sometimes still found on vintage climber hooks and gear, do not meet that requirement and should not be used for life support.

Snap hooks are also common on chainsaw lanyards, fall protection lanyards for aerial lifts and rigging lines, each with its own requirements. Make sure the snap you choose is rated for its role.

Climber hooks with a large gate opening also help when clipping around a thick stem or a wide saddle ring with gloves on. Try the gate with the gloves you actually wear before buying a set for the crew.

Steel or aluminum

Steel rope snaps are heavier but very durable, and they hold up well on lanyards that see daily abuse. Aluminum double-locking snaps save weight on a long climbing day. Open-style hooks like the Petzl Eashook are designed to work with specific rope terminations, so check compatibility before you buy.

Look at gate opening size, whether the snap fits your saddle rings and lanyard eye, and how easy the lock is to release with gloves.

Snap hooks with a locking feature are sometimes sold as snap hook with lock or locking snap hook. Either way, check the rating and the number of actions needed to open it before using it for life support.

Weight differences add up when you carry several snaps on a lanyard and a climbing line.

Inspection

Check that the keeper and gate close and lock on their own every time. Look for rope wear grooves, cracks, bent gates, worn pivots and corrosion. Retire any snap that sticks open, has been shock loaded or shows deformation. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for service life.

Clean snaps with fresh water if they get sticky with sap or grit, dry them fully, and use only the lubricant the manufacturer recommends. A snap that is slow to close is a snap that needs attention before the next climb.

Fitting a snap to your line

Snaps are attached to a lanyard or rope with a sewn or spliced eye. A splice that is too loose lets the snap rotate and cross load; one that is too tight wears the rope. Many climbers buy lanyards with snaps already installed, or have them professionally spliced. If you replace the rope on an older lanyard, you can reuse the snap only if it passes inspection.

Think about how the snap will sit on your saddle. Some D-rings accept a snap better than a carabiner, while others work best with a narrow gate. Check that the snap cannot roll onto its gate or be cross loaded.