PETZL GRIGRI Belay Device Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and proper use, maintenance, and storage of your PETZL GRIGRI belay device. The GRIGRI is an assisted braking device designed for belaying in lead climbing and top-rope climbing. It is compatible with single dynamic ropes between 8.9 and 11 mm in diameter, with optimal performance for ropes between 9.4 and 10.3 mm.

Read and understand all instructions before using this product. Failure to follow these warnings can result in serious injury or death.

2. Safety Information and Warnings

WARNING:

• Mountaineering, rock climbing, industrial work, and rescue are inherently dangerous activities.
• Any person involved in these activities must obtain qualified instruction on the proper use of these products prior to using them.
• Any person using these products is responsible for their own actions and decisions.
• FAILURE TO FOLLOW WARNINGS CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
• Always inspect your equipment before and after each use.
• Ensure the rope is correctly installed in the device according to the diagrams.
• Maintain control of the braking side of the rope at all times.
• Never use damaged or modified equipment.

3. Product Overview

The PETZL GRIGRI is an assisted braking belay device. Its design incorporates aluminum side plates, a stainless steel cam and friction plate, and a reinforced nylon handle. It is compact and lightweight, weighing approximately 170 grams.

Figure 1: Front view of the PETZL GRIGRI belay device. This image shows the overall shape and the engraved diagrams indicating rope direction and user interaction.

Key Components:

• Side Plates: Aluminum construction forming the body of the device.
• Cam: Internal stainless steel mechanism that assists in braking.
• Friction Plate: Stainless steel component that provides friction for braking.
• Handle: Reinforced nylon lever used for lowering the climber.
• Attachment Hole: For connecting to a locking carabiner on the harness.

4. Setup and Rope Installation

Correct rope installation is critical for the safe operation of the GRIGRI. Always follow the engraved diagrams on the device.

1. Open the Device: Pivot the side plate to open the device.
2. Insert Rope: Insert the rope into the device, ensuring the climber's side of the rope comes out of the top opening and the braking hand side comes out of the bottom opening, as indicated by the engraved rope diagrams. The braking hand side of the rope should pass through the cam mechanism.
3. Close the Device: Close the side plate securely.
4. Attach to Harness: Connect the GRIGRI to your belay loop using a locking carabiner. Ensure the carabiner is properly locked.
5. Perform a Safety Check: Before climbing, always perform a partner check to ensure the rope is correctly threaded, the carabiner is locked, and all systems are secure.

Figure 2: The PETZL GRIGRI with a climbing rope correctly installed. Note the direction of the rope through the device, with the climber's end exiting upwards and the braking end downwards.

5. Operating Instructions

The GRIGRI provides assisted braking, but it is not an auto-locking device. The belayer must always keep a hand on the braking side of the rope.

5.1. Giving Slack (Lead Climbing)

• Hold the braking side of the rope with your braking hand.
• Push the cam with your thumb to release the rope slightly, allowing it to feed through.
• Feed the rope smoothly to the climber as they advance. Always maintain control of the braking side.

5.2. Taking Slack (Top-Rope or Lead Climbing)

• Pull the climber's side of the rope upwards with your guide hand.
• Simultaneously pull the braking side of the rope downwards with your braking hand, taking up any slack.
• Ensure the cam re-engages after taking slack.

5.3. Lowering a Climber

To lower a climber, use the handle to control the descent speed.

Figure 3: The PETZL GRIGRI with the handle engaged for lowering. The braking hand must always maintain control of the rope.

1. Maintain a firm grip on the braking side of the rope with your braking hand.
2. Slowly pivot the handle downwards with your other hand. This releases the cam and allows the rope to feed through.
3. Control the speed of descent by adjusting the angle of the handle and the tension in your braking hand.
4. Never fully release the braking hand from the rope, even when using the handle.

6. Maintenance and Storage

6.1. Cleaning

• Clean the device with fresh water and a mild soap if it becomes dirty.
• Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
• Allow to air dry completely before storage.
• Avoid using solvents or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the materials.

6.2. Inspection

• Regularly inspect the device for cracks, deformation, excessive wear, or corrosion on any part (side plates, cam, friction plate, handle).
• Check for smooth operation of the cam and handle.
• If any damage is found, retire the device immediately.

6.3. Storage

• Store the GRIGRI in a cool, dry, dark place, away from direct sunlight, chemicals, and extreme temperatures.
• Avoid storing near corrosive substances or sharp objects.

7. Troubleshooting

• Rope not feeding smoothly:

  Ensure the rope is correctly installed according to the diagrams. Check for twists in the rope or obstructions in the device. The rope diameter must be within the specified range (8.9 to 11 mm).

• Difficulty lowering the climber:

  Ensure your braking hand is controlling the rope and you are slowly pivoting the handle. If the handle is pulled too far, the device can lock up. Practice lowering on the ground with a partner before use at height.
• Device appears damaged or worn:

  Immediately cease use and inspect the device thoroughly. If any damage or excessive wear is present, retire the device and replace it. Do not attempt to repair the device yourself.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

PETZL products are guaranteed for three years against any material or manufacturing defect. Exclusions from the warranty include normal wear and tear, oxidation, modifications or alterations, incorrect storage, poor maintenance, damage due to accidents or negligence, and uses for which the product is not intended.

For technical support, warranty claims, or further information, please contact your local PETZL distributor or visit the official PETZL website. Always refer to the latest technical notice available on the manufacturer's website for the most up-to-date information regarding your device.

Manufacturer: Petzl