Locking semi-circle carabiner

[Jonathan T]

The standard central maillon as supplied by Petzl is rated at 25 kN long axis, 10 kN short axis.
http://www.petzl.com/petzl/SportProduits?MotRecherche=Quick+Search&pays=0&Langue=en&Activite=26&Famille=21&SousFamille=0&Produit=365&Conseil=&ProduitAssocie=

In their catalogue they also have a locking semi-circle carabiner called the Omni which basically looks like a central maillon except it has either a screwgate or twistlock. It's on the caving harness page but I can't find it on the website, English or French. It's heavier than the maiilon but is rated at 15kn in all directions and about 35 / 35grams heavier..

Has anyone used one? The only advantage I can see is that it's stronger in the cross axis and probably easier to open. Disadvantages are that it's heavier, weaker in the long axis and easier to open.

 

[Dave H]

I would never use anything that is easy to open as a central mallion, prusiking would open up a screw gate very quickly from the movement.
I hope that you were planning an alternative use.

 

[Jonathan T]

Had no plans to buy one as a central maillon suits me fine.

 

[Stu]

Have seen some odd things in the pages of paragliding catalogues and I think Kong did something similar to what you describe but it wasn't perfectly semi circular.

 

[Mike W]

I've used both types of 'Omni' extensively, and like them both very much, but BE WARNED - the 'Triact' version (autolocking gate) goes into a terminal decline at the first sniff of mud. I suspect it was designed for canyoning or similar hygenic pastime !