Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw Review

Behind the Box: Testing the Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw

For those venturing into alpine terrain or engaging in the intricate dance of trad climbing, weight and efficiency are paramount. My search for a quickdraw set that would lighten my rack without compromising reliability led me to the Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw. This particular set promised an ultralight solution, a crucial consideration when every gram counts on a multi-pitch ascent or a long alpine approach.

My own experience, spanning a decade across diverse environments, has instilled a deep appreciation for gear that performs consistently under pressure. I needed something that wouldn’t be a burden on my shoulders, yet would inspire confidence when clipping into a bomber piece of protection. The visual appeal of the Edelrid quickdraw set, particularly the Silver/Oasis colorway, was a secondary, albeit pleasant, consideration.

Upon receiving the set, my initial impression was one of surprising lightness. The materials felt robust, and the overall construction suggested a product built for purpose. While I briefly considered other lightweight quickdraws, the specific sling options and the reputation of Edelrid for producing quality climbing hardware made this set a standout choice for my needs. The tangible lightness in hand brought a sense of anticipation, a quiet promise of easier ascents.

Real-World Testing: Putting Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw took place on a series of sport climbing routes and some less demanding trad routes in my local cragging area. These routes involve significant vertical gain, requiring numerous clips and consistent use of quickdraws. The primary scenario was clipping into fixed bolts and placing protection in natural features, simulating the core demands of rock climbing.

The conditions varied from sun-baked rock to slightly damp, shaded sections, putting the quickdraws through a mild test of environmental resilience. Clipping and unclipping felt smooth and intuitive, with the Keylock closure mechanism proving to be as effective as advertised. There were no immediate surprises or quirks; the experience was straightforward and focused on the climbing itself.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, encompassing a significant number of pitches and a few longer alpine excursions, the Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw has held up remarkably well. They have been stuffed into backpacks, subjected to the occasional swing against rock faces, and have seen hundreds of clipping cycles. So far, there are no visible signs of significant wear and tear; the slings remain stiff but pliable, and the carabiners show only minor cosmetic scuffs.

Maintenance has been minimal, essentially just a quick wipe-down after dusty days and a check for any debris in the carabiner gates. Compared to some budget quickdraws I’ve used in the past, these feel significantly more durable and reliable. They haven’t exhibited the premature stiffness or the sticky gates that can plague lesser-quality gear, maintaining their smooth operation.

Breaking Down the Features of Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw

Specifications

The Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw comes in two primary configurations, tailored for different climbing applications. The set I’ve been testing features a generous 60 cm length, equipped with an 8 mm Dyneema® sling. This length is ideal for reducing rope drag on wandering routes or for extending protection points effectively.

In addition to the 60 cm option, a 14 cm variant is available, boasting a 15/22 mm quickdraw sling made from HMPE with anti-twist technology. The HMPE sling, often lighter and more abrasion-resistant than traditional nylon, is a significant benefit for reducing overall rack weight. The Keylock closure mechanism on the carabiners is a standard feature, ensuring snag-free clipping and unclipping.

These specifications are crucial for performance. The 60 cm length offers versatility, allowing for easier placements and less rope drag on complex terrain. The use of Dyneema® for the sling contributes to its ultralight nature, a critical factor for alpine climbing where minimizing weight is paramount. The Keylock system enhances usability, preventing snagging on gear loops or cruxes, which is vital when the pressure is on.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of the Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw is to provide secure, efficient connection points between the rope and the rock. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The carabiners gate action is smooth and positive, and the connection with the sling provides good reach and stability.

The primary strength of this quickdraw set lies in its very lightweight construction. This makes a noticeable difference when carrying a full rack, allowing for more energy to be conserved for the climbing itself. A minor point of consideration might be that the slim slings, while light, can feel a bit less substantial in hand than wider nylon slings, though this is a common trade-off for weight savings. It certainly meets and often exceeds expectations for its intended alpine and trad climbing use, especially given its competitive price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw is focused on functionality and minimalism, befitting its alpine orientation. The carabiners are well-shaped, offering a comfortable grip for their size, and the Keylock closure mechanism is a definite ergonomic win. There’s a subtle texture on the carabiner body that aids in handling, even with gloved hands or when slightly damp.

The 8 mm Dyneema® sling is incredibly thin and light, which is the primary design goal. While this contributes to the overall weight reduction, it might feel less substantial for some users accustomed to thicker slings. However, the construction feels solid, and there’s a clear sense of robust engineering behind the entire unit.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw appears to be built for longevity in demanding environments. The Dyneema® sling is known for its high tensile strength and resistance to UV degradation, suggesting it will remain functional for many seasons. The carabiner bodies are anodized, providing a durable finish that resists scratches and corrosion.

Cleaning is straightforward; a damp cloth and a gentle brush are usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. There are no complex parts to worry about, and the integrated design minimizes potential failure points. I have not encountered any specific maintenance concerns, but as with all climbing gear, regular inspection for wear, especially on the sling and gate action, is recommended.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw is typically sold as a set, with the carabiners and the sling integrated. No specific additional accessories are typically included or necessary for its core function. Customization options are limited to choosing the set length (14 cm or 60 cm) and potentially the color, which primarily affects visual identification.

The Keylock closure mechanism is a standard feature, but it’s worth noting that some users might prefer carabiners with a screw-gate for specific applications, though that would defeat the ultralight purpose here. The anti-twist technology on the 14 cm sling option is a standout feature, preventing the sling from flipping and making clipping easier.

Pros and Cons of Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw

Who Should Buy Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw?

The Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw is an excellent choice for serious climbers focused on alpine adventures, long trad routes, or any situation where minimizing rack weight is a critical consideration. Climbers who prioritize efficiency and are comfortable with the nuances of Dyneema® slings will find these quickdraws invaluable. Those who regularly deal with significant rope drag on wandering routes will especially appreciate the longer sling.

Anyone looking for a budget-friendly, general-purpose sport climbing quickdraw might find other options more suitable; these are geared towards specialized weight-saving. For those venturing into the alpine, pairing these with a lightweight harness and a slim rope would complete a highly efficient rack.

Conclusion on Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw

The Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw is a testament to Edelrid‘s commitment to producing high-performance, lightweight climbing gear. For its intended purpose of alpine tours and trad climbing, it excels by significantly reducing overall weight without sacrificing crucial elements of safety and functionality. The 60 cm length coupled with the Dyneema® sling provides an ideal balance of reach and minimal mass, and the Keylock closure ensures smooth operation.

Considering its premium materials and thoughtful design, the price point of $25.49 for a quickdraw of this caliber represents excellent value for the serious alpinist or trad climber. I would not hesitate to recommend the Edelrid Mission II Extendable Set Quickdraw to any climber who understands the critical importance of a light rack and demands reliable performance in demanding environments.