Faders SUM Belay Device Caution

A cautionary notice (NOT a recall) has been issued for users of the Faders SUM belay device. This device is similar in some ways to the more popular Petzl GriGri belay device (though similar concerns do not apply to the GriGri). The notice attached (PDF) provides details of the issue.

The concern, as stated in the notice is this: Proper use of the Faders SUM belay device requires that the SUM must be able to move freely with respect to its attachment karabiner. This fact is made clear in the instructions that are pro- vided with the SUM - “To function properly the device must be able to rotate with respect to its attachment point to the karabi- ner...” It has come to Fixe’s attention that some users, with certain karabiners, have performed only a quick check which has not been sufficient to verify free movement of the device under all circumstances, and has left these users with a false impression about safe use of the SUM with that karabiner.

Users of the device should read the full notice for the recommended remedies.