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Compare Best Carabiners & Fasteners head to head

Pick any two picks from this list and see specs, current price, pros, cons and reader ratings side by side.

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RockLock Screwgate Carabiner

#1 on this list

RockLock Screwgate Carabiner

Black Diamond

The default locker for anything that matters. A large, keylock-nose HMS shape with a hot-forged body, a smooth screwgate, and enough basket width to take a munter hitch, a belay device, and a glove-thick hand all at once. If you own one locking carabiner, own this one.

Price
USD 15.95
Reader rating
No reader votes yet
How we assessed it
Specification researched
Plume HMS K3GH

#2 on this list

Plume HMS K3GH

Grivel

A full-size, fully rated HMS locker that weighs less than most wiregates. Grivel forges the Plume line thin where the load is not and leaves material where it is, which is how you get a pear-shaped locker light enough to carry three of without noticing.

Price
Check current price
Reader rating
No reader votes yet
How we assessed it
Specification researched

Specs side by side

RockLock Screwgate Carabiner versus Plume HMS K3GH specifications
SpecRockLock Screwgate CarabinerPlume HMS K3GH
Weight89 grams—
Gate TypeScrewgate—
Major Axis Strength24 kN—
Minor Axis Strength7 kN—
Open Gate Strength7 kN—
Gate Opening24 mmWide
MaterialHot-forged aluminumAluminum Alloy
Type—HMS Locking Carabiner
Locking Mechanism—Screwgate
Weight Class—Ultralight, full-sized
Manufacturer—Grivel

What our reviewers liked and didn't

RockLock Screwgate Carabiner

  • Exceptionally durable hot-forged construction
  • Large HMS shape accommodates multiple ropes/knots
  • Smooth, reliable screwgate mechanism
  • Keylock nose prevents snagging
  • Comfortable to handle, even with gloves
  • Heavier than some minimalist locking carabiners
  • Larger size can feel bulky on a light rack
  • Screwgate can be slower than auto-lockers in some scenarios

Plume HMS K3GH

  • Exceptionally lightweight for a full-sized HMS locker
  • Generous gate opening and smooth screwgate action
  • Full pear shape accommodates munter hitches and belay devices well
  • Keylock nose prevents snagging during clipping
  • Strategic forging maintains strength while minimizing weight
  • Higher price point compared to standard HMS carabiners
  • Thin profile might feel less substantial to some users

Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.