C.A.M.P. Evo Tricam Set -0.25-1.5- Review

My Honest Thoughts on the C.A.M.P. Evo Tricam Set -0.25-1.5-

For years, the climbing world has relied on the humble Tricam, a piece of gear that seems deceptively simple yet possesses a remarkable versatility. When C.A.M.P. announced an evolution of this classic, the C.A.M.P. Evo Tricam Set -0.25-1.5-, my curiosity was immediately piqued. My own experience spans over a decade in diverse environments—from the sheer rock faces to the controlled chaos of workshops and labs—meaning I’ve seen firsthand how critical reliable, adaptable gear can be. This set promised an enhanced version of an already proven tool, and I needed to see if it lived up to the hype.

The trigger for investigating this particular set stemmed from a recent multi-pitch route where my existing rack felt a bit limited in a specific type of irregular crack. I was looking for something that offered more placement options without adding significant bulk or complexity, and the Evo’s claim of a third placement mode felt like a potential game-changer. My initial impression upon unboxing the C.A.M.P. Evo Tricam Set -0.25-1.5- was positive. The build quality felt robust, the anodizing was clean, and the new sling design, which I’ll discuss later, was immediately apparent.

While I considered other small passive protection and even some camming devices, the unique camming action combined with passive chocks on the Tricam design is truly distinct. The Evo’s enhancements seemed to amplify this inherent advantage. My first reaction was one of focused anticipation, eager to transition from initial inspection to practical application.

Real-World Testing: Putting C.A.M.P. Evo Tricam Set -0.25-1.5- to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial foray with the C.A.M.P. Evo Tricam Set -0.25-1.5- took place on a granite crag known for its pockets and irregular fissures. I primarily tested the smaller sizes, the 0.25 and 0.5, in placements where traditional nuts and even some smaller cams struggled to find purchase. The ability to engage the Tricam in its passive chock mode felt familiar, but the revised shape of the head did seem to offer a more secure bite in shallower placements.

The “active cam” mode, while still requiring a careful feel for the rock, felt more positive due to the slightly wider top section of the head. This added taper provided a reassuringly stable feel in placements that might have felt a bit marginal with older Tricam designs. I also deliberately subjected these units to a few mock “drops” onto a padded surface to gauge the sling’s initial resilience, and they held up without any obvious issues.

Ease of use was generally good, though the one-handed placement, a key selling point of the Evo, did require a brief adjustment period. Getting the sling to consistently stiffen and guide the unit into place took a few attempts. I didn’t encounter any immediate issues, but I did notice that the new, stiffer sling could sometimes make it slightly harder to flick the unit past a small irregularity on the rock face compared to the floppier slings of older models.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of several climbing trips and even some extended gym sessions where I simulated real-world rock conditions, the Evo Tricams have proven their worth. They’ve been tucked into crannies, scraped against rock, and repeatedly loaded and unloaded without any degradation in their function. The Nylon slings, particularly the internal webbing that’s now closer to the head, show remarkable resistance to abrasion. I’ve found this crucial in protecting the gear from sharp rock edges.

Durability has been a strong suit. Despite being subjected to dust, grit, and the occasional downpour (followed by rapid drying), the anodizing remains intact, and the camming surfaces show minimal wear. I haven’t experienced any stiffness in the pivot points or any loss of the springiness in the camming mechanism. Maintenance has been straightforward; a quick rinse and dry is usually all that’s needed.

Comparing them to older Tricam models, the Evo set feels like a significant upgrade in terms of usability and longevity. While budget alternatives exist, the refined design and construction of these C.A.M.P. units justify their premium feel. They consistently outperform generic passive pro in tricky placements and offer a distinct advantage over standard cams in certain crack geometries.

Breaking Down the Features of C.A.M.P. Evo Tricam Set -0.25-1.5-

Specifications

The C.A.M.P. Evo Tricam Set -0.25-1.5- includes three units covering a range of sizes from the tiny 0.25 to the more substantial 1.5. The total weight for the set is a respectable 4.9 oz, which is quite light for three such versatile pieces of protection. The primary material for the construction of the slings is durable Nylon, ensuring both strength and abrasion resistance.

These specifications are crucial for understanding the practical application of the gear. The weight is minimal, making it easy to carry an extended rack without burden. The range of sizes means you’re covered for a variety of crack widths, from thin horizontal seams to slightly larger pockets. The Nylon slings are designed for long-term use and are a significant improvement in durability.

Compared to a full set of cams of equivalent holding power, these Tricams are considerably lighter and often more compact. They occupy less space on a harness and can often fit where cams might not. The sizes are well-chosen, with the 0.25 being exceptionally useful for those challenging micro-placements, and the 1.5 offering a solid option for slightly larger, irregular features.

Performance & Functionality

The core job of the C.A.M.P. Evo Tricam Set -0.25-1.5- is to provide secure protection in a wide array of rock features. In this regard, it excels. The three distinct placement modes—active cam, and two passive chocks—offer an unparalleled level of adaptability. The Evo’s design, with its optimized head shape, enhances stability in cammed placements and increases confidence when using the passive modes.

A significant strength is its performance in horizontal cracks and solution pockets, areas where it truly shines. The slightly wider taper at the top of the head of these Evo units does indeed contribute to greater stability. Conversely, a minor weakness might be that the stiffer sling, while great for one-handed placement, can sometimes feel a bit less “articulate” in very fiddly, deep placements where a softer sling might drape more organically.

Overall, these Tricams meet and often exceed expectations, particularly for climbers who frequent varied rock types. They offer a unique niche in protection that cams and nuts can’t always fill, especially considering their relatively light weight and compact nature. The added stability in cammed placements is a welcome enhancement over previous iterations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the C.A.M.P. Evo Tricam Set -0.25-1.5- is immediately apparent. The units feel solid, with smooth anodizing that resists scratching. The pivot points are well-seated, and the springs have a consistent, reliable tension. The redesigned sling, featuring stiffer Nylon with the inner band extended, is a triumph of practical engineering.

Ergonomically, the units are designed for efficient manipulation. The thumb loop is well-shaped, and the stiffened sling makes one-handed racking and placement significantly easier, especially when clipped to a harness. This feature is a genuine boon when you’re on lead and need to quickly transition to placing gear.

Markings are clear and easy to read, indicating size and color coding. The shape of the head itself is the defining ergonomic feature, optimized for both camming and passive placements. While there’s a slight learning curve to mastering the nuances of the Evo’s three modes, the overall design is intuitive for anyone familiar with basic climbing protection.

Durability & Maintenance

These Evo Tricams are built to last. Given their robust Nylon slings and high-quality alloy construction, they should withstand years of hard use, provided they are used within their intended parameters. They are not disposable items; rather, they are investments in safety that should be regularly inspected.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. After a day of climbing, a quick brush to remove debris and a rinse with fresh water is usually sufficient. I’ve found that avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight when not in use helps preserve the integrity of the slings. No specific lubrication is required, which simplifies their upkeep significantly.

The only potential point of concern, common to all climbing gear, is ensuring the sling is not damaged by sharp rock edges over prolonged contact. However, the enhanced durability of the Evo’s sling design offers superior protection in this regard compared to older models. I haven’t encountered any failure points, and the materials inspire confidence in their long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The C.A.M.P. Evo Tricam Set -0.25-1.5- comes as a complete set, typically without additional accessories. The primary “customization” comes from the inherent versatility of the units themselves and their ability to be placed in various orientations and modes. There are no external accessories like interchangeable tips or additional modules.

However, the effectiveness of these Tricams can be significantly enhanced by pairing them with a good quality nut tool for extraction, especially from tight placements. Having a range of carabiners appropriate for rack size is also essential. The C.A.M.P. units are generally compatible with standard climbing carabiners and slings.

While these units don’t offer traditional “customization,” their strength lies in their multi-functional design. They are self-contained units designed for immediate use out of the box. The set provides three essential sizes, and further expansion would involve purchasing additional individual Tricams.

Pros and Cons of C.A.M.P. Evo Tricam Set -0.25-1.5-

Who Should Buy C.A.M.P. Evo Tricam Set -0.25-1.5-?

The C.A.M.P. Evo Tricam Set -0.25-1.5- is an ideal purchase for experienced climbers looking to expand their rack with highly versatile and lightweight protection. Climbers who frequent trad routes with irregular crack systems, horizontal seams, or pockets will find these units invaluable. They are particularly well-suited for alpinism and multi-pitch climbing where every ounce and every placement option counts.

Those who should probably skip this set might be absolute beginners who are still mastering basic cam and nut placements, as the Tricam’s unique mechanics require a bit more finesse. Additionally, climbers who primarily stick to routes with perfectly parallel, consistent cracks might find less utility in them compared to a full rack of cams. The price point, while justified by performance, might be a consideration for those on a very tight budget, although it is competitive for a set of three quality pieces.

To maximize the use of these Tricams, I’d recommend pairing them with a high-quality nut tool for efficient extraction, especially from tricky placements. Having a variety of locking and non-locking carabiners suitable for trad climbing will also ensure they can be clipped in securely and efficiently. For those new to Tricams, spending time practicing placements at home or in a gym setting is highly recommended.

Conclusion on C.A.M.P. Evo Tricam Set -0.25-1.5-

The C.A.M.P. Evo Tricam Set -0.25-1.5- represents a significant evolution of an already iconic piece of climbing gear. It takes the inherent strengths of the original Tricam—its versatility, lightness, and ability to function where other gear cannot—and refines them with modern engineering and materials. The enhanced stability in cammed placements and the vastly improved one-handed handling thanks to the stiffer sling are genuine game-changers for on-route efficiency and confidence.

Considering their performance, durability, and the unique capabilities they bring to a rack, the price point of $105.99 for this set is more than justified. For experienced climbers seeking to push their limits on challenging terrain, these units offer an exceptional value proposition. I would wholeheartedly recommend this set to any trad climber looking to add a highly effective, adaptable, and lightweight component to their rack. If you’re looking for gear that opens up new possibilities on the rock, this set is a must-consider.