Sungura wrote:I'm still very currious about a stop and next time I'm in the UK I'm gonna get the Dales folk to train me on it and try it out, I think.
I still have a "holy shit LET GO" reflex which I have to consciously think hard to not do - if something were to go wrong even a bit I am not sure that I would have the wherewithal to keep that grip with my brake hand. It will be a long time before I feel ok rappelling without being on belay since it is such a standard reaction of mine.
What you're describing is the opposite of the way the Petzl Stop works. When you release the handle the cam engages and you stop. You squeeze the handle to go. This has been the main concern about the function of the device since most people will grip the handle more tightly if they encounter a problem rather than releasing it. I don't know too many people that have a "holy shit LET GO" reflex. Seems like it could be a liability with most other rappel devices.
My understanding of the SRTE Stop is that letting go or squeezing hard both engage the brake, so either relex gets you out of trouble. But to get this function means a heavier, more expensive device that has to be adjusted for rope diameter.
I think the fact that both manufacturers use the same name has created some confusion.