Wild Country Variable Controller, $17
Summary: The Wild Country Variable Controller indeed lives up to its name, offering great friction control while lowering and rappelling. The asymmetrical tube has a very broad, cord-friendly rope-bearing surface that provides a smooth medium for controlled rope movement. The unit also provided a classic “stonker” catch when holding falls. However, feeding out rope at a quick pace was definitely an issue, as the device locked up frequently.
Pros: Excellent rappelling and lowering.
Cons: Locks up.
Overall grade: B+

Wild Country/Excalibur: (801) 942-8471,
www.wildcountry.co.uk