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Wild Country - Belay Device Review

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

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