by NZcaver » Aug 31, 2007 12:47 pm
Chris,
Like many things in life, cavers will have a wide variety of opinions on this.
I agree with Dwight that your choice of descender will best depend on where you'll be caving and who with, and the type/diameter of the rope. Also the depths of the drops, how they are rigged (rebelays?), and other such things. But I disagree that a full size (big/heavy) stainless rack is necessarily the best choice for all stiff rope situations. I've used a Petzl Stop as my primary descender for about 15 years (actually I'm on my second Stop now), and it still does me fine even on stiff rope. Only once or twice on short sloping drops has this ever been a problem, and then I solved the issue by rigging my Stop in a C-configuration.
Just know that a Stop is not considered the easiest device to learn on (because of the added complexity of having a brake handle), so get some good hands-on instruction from someone who knows how to use one. Be aware the brake handle is really more of a "convenience" than a safety feature. Often the handle needs an upward push to lock, otherwise you'll slowly creep down the rope. But the Stop is nice and quick/simple to get on and off rope, that's for sure.
Another popular option in the US is the Micro-rack, which is about the same size/weight as the Stop but functions rather differently. I suggest you find some local cavers, hook up with those who are vertically active, rig a tree or cliff, and see if anyone will loan you their gear to try out after they show you how to use it. You could also try reading back through these On Rope threads for information - just don't use it as a total subsitute for real training/practice/experience!