Finsterwalder & Charly Snaplock karabiner for paragliding

Finsterwalder's new Snaplock karabiner

Finsterwalder & Charly’s new drop-forged titanal Snaplock karabiner is lightweight and easy to use, whilst exceeding DHV specifications for strength. Despite being only half the weight of a steel krab, it can withstand four times the load, and can be used for five years’ unlimited use (for solo wings, or two years for tandems).

Even with an open gate, the 76 g Snaplock can withstand 14 kN force with no signs of damage, and a breaking load of 20 kN. With the gate closed, the breaking load is an astounding 30 kN (equivalent to approximately 3,000 kg).

Finsterwalder & Charly's Snaplock karabiner, showing how it can accommodate 44 mm webbing and an extra back support strap

Modern lightweight harnesses often use 25 mm webbing, and the Snaplock has been designed to fit this, although it can also accommodate the more traditional 44 mm webbing if it can be tucked in, as in the image.

There is no need to push down on the twist-lock to open it, so it is very easy to use. The ‘nose’ on the Snaplock prevents it from turning sideways once mounted on the harness, and it can also be used to attach back straps, as shown in the image, to improve back support if required.

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