Black Diamond Nitron Screwgate Carabiner – Ultralight Locking Carabiner for Climbing

Elevate Your Climbing with the Lightest Locking Carabiner

The screwgate carabiner is a cornerstone of safe climbing, and the Black Diamond Nitron Screwgate sets a new standard. At just 50 g (1.8 oz), it’s the lightest locking carabiner in their range, thanks to its hot-forged aluminum construction. Despite its minimal weight, it boasts impressive strength ratings—24 kN closed gate, 8 kN open gate, and 7 kN minor axis. Whether you’re belaying, building anchors, or rigging gear, this carabiner’s sleek, ergonomic shape and snag-free keylock nose make clipping and unclipping both intuitive and snag-free.

Key Features & Benefits

• Hot-Forged Construction: Streamlined shape reduces weight without sacrificing strength.
• Screwgate Sleeve: Secure locking action prevents accidental opening.
• Keylock Nose: Snag-free clipping—no catching on slings or bolts.
• High Strength Ratings: 24 kN closed gate, 8 kN open gate, 7 kN minor axis.
• Ergonomic Design: Optimized for one-handed operation, comfortable in belay gloves.
• Made in the USA: Crafted under strict quality standards.

Technical Specifications

Why Choose a Screwgate Carabiner?

Locking carabiners like the Nitron Screwgate provide an extra layer of security compared to non-locking models. The screwgate mechanism ensures the gate stays closed under load, preventing accidental unclipping during critical maneuvers. Climbers trust screwgate carabiners for:

• Belaying: Safe attachment to belay devices and harnesses.
• Anchor Building: Reliable link in multi-point anchors.
• Gear Racks: Organized attachment of quickdraws, cams, and nuts.
• Rescue & Rigging: Secure locking under dynamic loads.

People Also Ask

What is the difference between a screwgate and twist-lock carabiner?

Screwgate carabiners require manual tightening of the sleeve, offering tactile confirmation of lock status. Twist-lock models auto-lock when the gate closes, saving time but requiring more dexterity to open. Screwgate is favored when you need clear visual and tactile feedback.

How often should I inspect my carabiner?

Inspect before every climb and conduct a thorough check monthly. Look for bent gates, rough opening/closing action, cracks, corrosion, or excessive wear on the nose and hinge.

Can I use a screwgate carabiner for sport clipping?

While possible, screwgates are bulkier to operate one-handed on routes. Many climbers choose non-locking quickdraw carabiners for sport clipping and reserve screwgates for anchors and belaying.

How do I clean and maintain aluminum carabiners?

Rinse with fresh water after exposure to salt or dirt, then dry thoroughly. Lubricate the gate hinge and thread with a small drop of dry lubricant. Avoid harsh chemicals that degrade anodized finishes.

Proper Use & Best Practices

Locking Technique

Twist the sleeve fully until it seats snugly against the nose—never leave it half-open. Perform a quick gate-check by pushing open the unlocked gate and trying to twist back.

Weight Limit & Load Directions

Always load along the major axis (spine). Side-loading or cross-loading can drastically reduce strength. Align carabiners straight in the rope path.

Avoiding Cross-Loading

Ensure full contact between carabiner spine and anchor point. Use slings or orient the carabiner to prevent twisting under load.

Care & Storage Tips

• Cleaning: Soak in warm water with mild soap; brush dirt from hinge and nose.
• Drying: Air-dry fully before storage to prevent corrosion.
• Lubrication: Apply dry Teflon-based lubricant to gate threads and hinge annually.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight and corrosive chemicals.

The Black Diamond Nitron Screwgate Carabiner is an exceptional blend of ultralight design and robust performance. Its hot-forged aluminum frame, secure screwgate locking, and snag-free keylock nose make it indispensable for climbers demanding reliability, speed, and weight savings. Elevate your climbing gear with the Nitron—engineered for adventure and built to last.