The Petzl Rig is essentially a compact, lighter version of the I’D without a panic brake and with a feature set suited for skinnier ropes and lower maximum loads compared to the Petzl I’D.  It was primarily designed as an auto-locking descender for rope access, however it can also be used as a rescue descender when connected to an anchor, a releasable anchor or a belay device.

 

At 400g it is lighter than most of the competition and Petzl say it is best suited for experienced users because of the lack of a panic function, but for use as a tactical descender being light, small and able to descend fast without locking up is an advantage.

 

As with other self-locking descenders for tactical operations involving abseiling or rappelling it allows users to instantly to stop or start a descent with needing to lock-off/un-lock the rope. It also allows transitioning into ascent easily if a position is overshot – the rope can be pulled through the device without needing to release the handle. The descender allows operators to be able to position themselves without tying off the device or physically moving the handle to a “safe” position. 

 

The Petzl Rig includes a safety gate on the moving side plate that allows the rope to be installed easily while the device remains connected to the harness – this makes dropping the device less likely and helps users when, passing intermediate anchors

 

The Rig can be used with rescue loads up to 200kg and up to 150kg for single operators. 

 

The Rig allows the rope to be either run over the side of the device onto a chunky stainless steel wear plate or if you want more friction through a V-channel in the front of the device. 

 

NSN Code (Black Version) : 8465-99-959-5180