Edelrid Giga Jul Belay Device for Sale, Reviews, Deals and Guides

This is by far the best device in the Edelrid Jul family and a great option for an all around device. You get to choose whether you want the assisted braking mode on (as in the Mega Jul) or turn it off and have a regular tube device. The Giga Jul can replace both your guide ATC and auto-locking device (like your grigri) all while still being able to do every action you need while climbing. Also worth noting, will steel construction where the rope wears this device will last you far longer than aluminum counterparts (especially if you are in sandy climbing terrain). The steep learning curve though is important to know about. It takes some practice but once mastered it is a highly versatile piece of equipment.

The beautiful function of the Giga Jul is to easily swap from a traditional tube style device, over to geometry assisted braking device. I have found having the dual options has been great for a few reasons - 1. The security of the geometry assisted braking for when I am belaying my partner on a pitch that I know they are putting in the effort. If they do peel off, I have that extra peace of mind knowing the geometry assisted is there to brake it all up. 2. Having the ability to belay as a tube device for very smooth feeding and keeping me honest at each belay is awesome. I learned on a tube device and they are easier to feed slack quickly - so on easier pitches where my partner may be climbing low 5 grade, I prefer the tube side. It also lets you belay with twins a bit easier/smoother. 3. The updated geometry of this devices is much smoother while belaying from the top in guide mode. The rope has an easier time pulling through. 4. Rappelling - I find myself always rappelling in geometry assisted mode. I like the psuedo "back up" - but it does come at the cost of a little bit of a learning curve and can be "Sticky" - if you are seasoned, want to use a prussik/kleimheist as a backup - then the tube side for rappel function the same as a traditional tube device. The size range this thing fits is fantastic. My favorite new do everything device by a long shot.