How I Used the C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams and What I Found
For years, my toolkit has relied on a diverse array of protection, from trad rack staples to advanced aid devices. When the opportunity arose to test the C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams, I was intrigued by their unique design and the manufacturer’s bold claims. The need for versatile, reliable passive pro that could handle a variety of crack sizes and placements is a constant in the field. I was particularly looking for something that offered a different approach to camming compared to traditional spring-loaded units.
My initial impressions upon unboxing were positive, noting the robust feel of the nylon sling and the distinctive, almost organic shape of the camming unit. The metalwork felt precisely machined, and the overall construction suggested durability. I had previously used some older-generation tricams and was curious to see how this current iteration stacked up. My brief look at some competing passive pro options confirmed that tricams occupy a niche all their own, offering unique solutions where other gear might struggle.
This brought a sense of quiet satisfaction, a feeling that I was about to put a refined piece of climbing hardware through its paces. The C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams promised to be a valuable addition, offering a blend of simplicity and effectiveness.
Real-World Testing: Putting C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial field tests involved placing these tricams in a variety of rock types and crack geometries. I specifically sought out shallow, flaring, and irregular placements where rigid cams often struggle or simply won’t fit. The nylon sling proved flexible and easy to manage, allowing for precise placement even in awkward spots.
Performance was particularly impressive in slightly wider, parallel-sided cracks where their unique camming action truly shone. I found them to be surprisingly intuitive to set up, with the cam’s shape naturally finding purchase. I did encounter one instance where a slightly larger unit seemed to “walk” under minimal load, a common characteristic of passive pro in certain placements, but it held firm when properly seated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use across various climbing disciplines, from single-pitch sport crags to longer multi-pitch adventures, these tricams have proven their worth. They’ve been exposed to dust, chalk, and occasional damp conditions without any noticeable degradation in performance. The nylon slings have remained supple, and the metal components show only minor cosmetic scuffs.
Compared to my older tricams, the newer models feel slightly more refined in their manufacturing, though the core functionality remains the same. Maintenance is minimal; a quick rinse and dry after a dirty day is all that’s typically needed. Storing them clipped into a gear sling or in a designated bag keeps them organized and protected.
Breaking Down the Features of C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams
Specifications
The C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams come in a comprehensive range of sizes, from the tiny Size 0.125 – White (10-15 mm crack width, 4 kN cam strength) up to the substantial Size 7.0 – Gold (92-140 mm crack width, 16 kN cam strength). Each unit is equipped with a durable Nylon Sling, providing a secure attachment point.
The camming strength varies significantly across the sizes, with the larger units boasting impressive ratings like the Size 2.5 – Blue and Size 3.0 – Navy offering 17 kN cam strength. This wide range of sizes and strengths ensures suitability for a vast spectrum of crack dimensions and potential fall forces. The weights also scale appropriately, from a mere 9 g for the smallest unit to 264 g for the largest, contributing to manageable rack weight.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of the C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams is to provide secure placements in irregular and parallel cracks, and they excel at this. Their patented design allows the cam to rotate, which provides superior holding power in flares and pockets where traditional cams might dislodge. The ability to “telescope” or cam in horizontal cracks is a significant advantage.
The main strength lies in their versatility; they can function as passive chocks or active cams depending on the placement. A key feature is the cam notch’s ability to transfer clamping force directly to the user’s hand during placement, offering an intuitive feel for security. However, some of the smaller units have lower chock strengths, around 2 kN, which necessitates careful consideration for their passive use.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of these tricams is deceptively simple yet highly effective. The wrap-around tail on the cam notch minimizes the need for multiple clamps, ensuring a solid connection with normal wear forces. The “cam tab” is not welded but a formed piece, which the manufacturer claims eliminates issues related to weld bind.
Ergonomically, they are comfortable to handle, with the rounded edges of the cam body fitting well in the palm. The intuitive nature of their placement, where you can feel the cam seat, is a huge plus for building confidence. The color-coding across the sizes also aids in quick identification on a rack, a common and highly valued feature in climbing gear.
Durability & Maintenance
Given their construction, the C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams are built for longevity. The robust nylon sling is resistant to abrasion, and the anodized aluminum camming surfaces are hard-wearing. Under normal use in climbing environments, these units are expected to last for many years.
Maintenance is straightforward; cleaning them involves brushing away debris and rinsing with water. It’s crucial to avoid excessive forces in situations where the cam is not properly seated to prevent premature wear. Potential failure points, as with any climbing gear, would likely arise from catastrophic damage or extreme overuse beyond rated capacities.
Accessories and Customization Options
These units are designed as standalone pieces of protection and do not typically come with additional accessories. C.A.M.P. does not offer extensive customization options for the tricams themselves, as their strength lies in their inherent, fixed design. However, their compatibility with standard carabiners for clipping into the sling is a given.
The integrated Nylon Sling is a crucial part of the system and is not designed to be replaced by the user. For those looking to expand their racking system, pairing these with a diverse collection of carabiners is the primary way to adapt them to various scenarios.
Pros and Cons of C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams
Pros
- Exceptional versatility in a wide range of crack types, including irregular and flaring placements.
- Patented design allows for active camming and passive chock function, providing redundant security.
- High breaking strengths on larger units (up to 17 kN), offering confidence in critical situations.
- Color-coded sizing facilitates rapid identification and selection on the rack.
- Durable construction with robust Nylon Sling and hard-wearing metal components.
Cons
- Smaller sizes have lower chock strength ratings, requiring careful consideration for passive use.
- Can be susceptible to “walking” in certain placements, a characteristic common to many passive protection devices.
- While versatile, they require a specific technique and understanding to place optimally, which may have a slight learning curve.
Who Should Buy C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams?
The C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams are an excellent investment for trad climbers, alpine climbers, and aid climbers who encounter varied rock and crack systems. They are particularly valuable for those looking to enhance their rack with pieces that perform exceptionally well in placements where spring-loaded cams may not be ideal. Climbers seeking reliable gear that can function both passively and actively will find these indispensable.
However, individuals focused purely on sport climbing or those primarily encountering perfectly parallel, bomber cracks might find less immediate utility. Beginners to trad climbing should prioritize learning fundamental placements with more conventional gear before diving deep into tricams. A good set of locking carabiners is essential for utilizing their full potential safely.
Conclusion on C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams
The C.A.M.P. Nylon Tricams stand out as a highly versatile and reliable piece of climbing hardware. Their unique design allows for effective protection in a multitude of crack types, often where other gear might fail. The combination of robust construction and functional innovation makes them a valuable asset for experienced climbers.
Considering their performance, durability, and the wide array of sizes offered, the price point represents good value for the safety they provide. I wholeheartedly recommend these tricams to any climber looking to expand their protection options and gain confidence in challenging placements. They are a classic for a reason, and this current iteration proves their enduring relevance.