Climbing is a dangerous sport. Every year, people die while climbing because they did not have the proper equipment. One of the most important pieces of equipment for climbers is the carabiner. A carabiner is a metal loop with a spring-loaded gate that opens and closes. Carabiners are used to connect the rope to the climber’s harness.
There are two types of carabiners: locking and non-locking. Locking carabiners are much safer than non-locking carabiners because they cannot accidentally open. Non-locking carabiners can open if they are bumped or if the gate is not fully closed.
Choosing the best locking climbing carabiner is essential for keeping you safe while you climb. We created this list of the best locking climbing carabiners with ratings and reviews to help you choose the right one for your next climb.
10 Best Locking Climbing Carabiners | June 2023 (Reviewed & Ranked)
Last updated on June 12, 2023
10 minutes
OUR TOP PICKS
Top #1
RHINO Produxs 2PCS of 12kN (2697 lbs) Heavy Duty Lightweight Locking Carabiner Clips - Excellent for...
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Top #2
Favofit UIAA Certified Climbing Carabiners, 3 Pack, 25KN (5620 lbs) Heavy Duty Large Locking Carabin...
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Top #3
XINDA Screwgate Locking Carabiner Clip - Professional Rock Climbing Carabiner Screw Lock,Heavy Duty ...
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A Few Of Our Ranking Metrics:
Check below for our tips on purchasing the best Locking Climbing Carabiners:
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The 10 best Locking Climbing Carabiners
Top #1
RHINO Produxs 2PCS of 12kN (2697 lbs) Heavy Duty Lightweight Locking Carabiner Clips - Excellent for Securing Pets, Outdoor, Camping, Hiking, Hammock,...
96%
Customer
Satisfaction
100%
Overall
Score
93%
Product
Quality
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WHAT WE LIKE:
Durable. Lightweight. Strong. Never rusts. Each Carabiner weighs only 1.02 ounces (29 grams). Saftey Screw Lock - Manual screw gate reduces the chance of open-gate failure. There is a smooth screw action on the locking mechanism.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The smooth action allows locking barrel to lock or unlock via one hand operation.
Made of 7075 aerospace grade aluminum alloy, this material is comparable in strength to many types of steel, melting temperature is 477°C or 891°F, it’s one of the strongest alloys available.
The carabiner looks and feels solid.
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Top #2
Favofit UIAA Certified Climbing Carabiners, 3 Pack, 25KN (5620 lbs) Heavy Duty Large Locking Carabiner Clips for Rock/Ice Climbing Rappelling Rescue S...
99%
Customer
Satisfaction
100%
Overall
Score
91%
Product
Quality
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WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are that it is UIAA certified and has a weight limit of 25KN (5620 lbs).
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The carabiners are UIAA certified.
The carabiners are sturdy and lightweight.
They have certificates for 2020, 2021 years.
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Top #3
XINDA Screwgate Locking Carabiner Clip - Professional Rock Climbing Carabiner Screw Lock,Heavy Duty Carabiners for Climbing,Mountaineer,Hammock,Campin...
98%
Customer
Satisfaction
96%
Overall
Score
93%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
This product is a locking climbing carabiner with a D-shape, heavy duty construction, and easy-to-open system. It is CE/UIAA certified and comes in at just 2.10 ounces.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is strong and durable.
It can open, close and lock easily with one hand.
It has a breaking strength that exceeds its stated kn.
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Top #4
FVW Auto Locking Rock Climbing Carabiner Clips,Professional 25KN (5620 lbs) Heavy Duty Caribeaners for Rappelling Swing Rescue & Gym etc, Large D-Shap...
98%
Customer
Satisfaction
92%
Overall
Score
93%
Product
Quality
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WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of these carabiners are that they are made from durable aircraft grade aluminum alloy, which is light weight and portable, holds up to 5620lbs of weight, and has a smooth screw locking design. They also feature an intimate design with a threaded nut on the lock catch, rotate the lock by hand when open and lock, which is delicacy and will not get stuck. Additionally, these carabiners are easy to connect the protector and belt, fix them well in major axis, which can exist 2500kg pull force, but weigh only 2 oz each. Finally, these carabiners are perfect for outdoor hiking, fishing, camping, traveling etc.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The gate is wider than the standard hook on most resistance bands.
It is good for repelling and climbing.
The construction is solid.
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Top #5
Paliston Locking Carabiner - 25kN 5600lb Climbing Carabiner Screw Gate D Shape Carabiner
97%
Customer
Satisfaction
91%
Overall
Score
90%
Product
Quality
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WHAT WE LIKE:
The light weight of the carabiners. The keylock nose design prevents snagging. The compact and strong construction.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is good for anchoring a seatbelt.
They are strong.
It is holding up to the force.
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Top #6
Black Diamond Hotforge Screwgate 3 Pack
98%
Customer
Satisfaction
91%
Overall
Score
91%
Product
Quality
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WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are that it is a clove hitch carabiner and the screwgate sleeve.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
N/A.
The carabiners are strong and super light.
It has performed well so far.
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Top #7
CAMNAL Heavy Duty Carabiner UIAA Certified Locking Carabiner 25KN (About 5620 lbs) Screw Lock Carabiner D Shape Carabiner Clip for Rock Climbing, Moun...
98%
Customer
Satisfaction
91%
Overall
Score
87%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
This product is UIAA certified and has a detailed tensile test. It is also easy to open and lock with a safety gap.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It does what it is supposed to do.
The carabiners can hold a lot of weight/load.
It is safe but looks scary.
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Top #8
BEIFENG Auto Locking Carabiner 25KN Professional Rock Climbing Carabiner Obtained UIAA Certification Heavy Duty Carabiners Suitable for Rock Climbing,...
97%
Customer
Satisfaction
91%
Overall
Score
86%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are that it is made of aviation-grade aluminum, has a surface oxide layer and baking varnish, is lightweight, and easy to use.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is effective, but make sure to check the gates and pins.
It came open on a rappel.
It is good for people who do not climb.
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Top #9
12Pack Stainless Steel Quick Link, M8 Oval Locking Carabiner, 5/16Inch Heavy Duty Carabiner Clips, Quick Chain Links Chain Connector for Camping Hikin...
98%
Customer
Satisfaction
89%
Overall
Score
88%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The heavy duty quick links are made of high quality stainless steel which is more durable than galvanized steel, waterproof and corrosion resistant. The 12pack 5/16" quick link chain provides fast connection for temporary and permanent applications.
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Top #10
A+Selected 8 Pack Threaded Quick Link, Stainless Steel Oval Locking Carabiner Clip, Tow Chain Quick Links, 1/4 Inch Diameter Rope Connector for Traile...
93%
Customer
Satisfaction
88%
Overall
Score
87%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are that it is made of 304 stainless steel, which is more durable than galvanized steel, and it has a weight capacity of 620 pounds.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The stainless steel looks pretty good, hardly any magnetism.
Will probably do good against rust.
The clips are strong.
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Locking Climbing Carabiners Buying Guide : What You Need To Know
*Our top pick for the best Locking Climbing Carabiners
Attributes Of High Quality Locking Climbing Carabiners
- A high quality locking climbing carabiner will have a smooth, easy to use locking mechanism.
- The gate of the carabiner should snap shut securely and not open easily by accident.
- The body of the carabiner should be made from strong, durable materials such as aluminum alloy.
- The shape of the carabiner is important for both strength and ease of use; it should have a curved or D shape.
How To Choose The Best Locking Climbing Carabiners
When you’re looking for locking climbing carabiners, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind in order to choose the best option for you. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
1. Consider the type of lock. There are three main types of locks used on climbing carabiners: auto-locking, manual-locking, and screwgate. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
2. Think about the material. Climbing carabiners are usually made from either aluminum or steel. Aluminum is lighter and cheaper, but steel is stronger and more durable.
3. Pay attention to the gate type. The gate is the part of the carabiner that opens and closes. There are three main types of gates: straight-gate, bent-gate, and wire-gate. Straight-gate carabiners are the most common, but bent-gate and wire-gate options can offer some advantages in certain situations.
4. Consider the size and shape. Climbing carabiners come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Some are designed for specific purposes, such as belaying or rappelling, while others are more general purpose. It’s important to choose a size and shape that will work well for the type of climbing you plan to do.
5. Make sure it’s rated for climbing. All climbing carabiners must be rated by an independent testing agency such as UIAA or CE before they can be sold. This rating indicates the strength of the carabiner and is an important safety consideration.
By following these tips, you can be sure to choose the best locking climbing carabiner for your needs.
What To Avoid When Looking For The Best Locking Climbing Carabiners
When choosing the best locking climbing carabiners, there are a few things you'll want to avoid. First, make sure that the carabiner is made of durable materials. You don't want something that's going to break easily. Second, check to see if the carabiner has a smooth locking mechanism. You don't want something that's going to get stuck or be difficult to unlock. Third, make sure the carabiner is the right size for your needs. You don't want something that's too big or too small. Lastly, avoid carabiners with sharp edges. You don't want something that could potentially cut you.