C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws – 6 Pack Review

One Week with the C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws – 6 Pack

After years of dedicated service in various demanding environments, my trusty rack of quickdraws was showing its age. Specifically, I was looking for a lighter, more streamlined option for projecting sport routes and alpine mixed climbs, where every ounce counts and effortless clipping is paramount. The C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws – 6 Pack caught my eye due to its reputation for being a high-performance, lightweight choice. My previous quickdraws, while robust, felt overly bulky for modern climbing. I considered a few other options, including offerings from Petzl and Black Diamond, but the C.A.M.P. Photon’s unique combination of a solid and wire gate carabiner on a mixed quickdraw seemed particularly well-suited to my needs. Unboxing these, I was immediately struck by their svelte profile and the clean lines of the carabiners. It felt like an upgrade that would genuinely enhance my climbing.

Real-World Testing: Putting C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws – 6 Pack to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial foray with the C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws – 6 Pack was on a steep limestone sport climbing project. Clipping into the first bolt after a tentative reach felt noticeably lighter than with my older gear. The straight gate Photon carabiner on the bolt side seated securely, and the Photon Wire on the rope end offered a surprisingly smooth and open gate for clipping the rope, even with slightly tired fingers. I tested these quickdraws in dry, sunny conditions initially, then later on a damp, breezy day at a granite crag. The variable width polyester dogbones proved to be just as grippy as advertised, allowing for confident mid-route adjustments without fumbling.

Even with the slight dampness on the granite, the clipping action remained consistent, and the Karstop Evo retainer on the rope end kept the carabiner snug against the dogbone, preventing annoying jingles and unnecessary movement. No immediate issues or surprises cropped up; in fact, the intuitive nature of these draws made them feel familiar from the first clip.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several weeks of consistent use, primarily focused on sport climbing and a few multi-pitch ice/rock routes, the C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws – 6 Pack have held up admirably. I’ve managed to clip hundreds, if not thousands, of meters of rope through them during this period, including a few slightly awkward clips where I had to rely on the large gate opening of the Photon Wire. There are no visible signs of wear or tear on the carabiners’ gates, springs, or bodies, nor any fraying or deformation on the 12 cm dogbones.

Maintenance has been minimal, essentially just a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after a particularly dusty climbing day. I’ve noted that the Photon Wire‘s gate mechanism feels as crisp and responsive as it did on day one, which is a testament to its design and construction. Compared to some budget quickdraws I’ve used in the past that developed stiff gates or worn slings quickly, these C.A.M.P. units are performing exceptionally well. They feel like they are built to last, even with aggressive use.

Breaking Down the Features of C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws – 6 Pack

Specifications

This pack of C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws – 6 Pack includes six individual quickdraws. Each unit features a Photon carabiner with a straight gate on the bolt side, paired with a hyperlight Photon Wire carabiner with a wire gate on the rope side. The dogbones are constructed from variable width polyester, offering a length of 12 cm. The Photon carabiner is C.A.M.P.’s lightest solid gate option, boasting their SphereLock closure for easier cleaning. The Photon Wire is highlighted for its large gate opening and precise gate tension. Additionally, each quickdraw is equipped with the proprietary Karstop Evo carabiner retainer on the rope end, ensuring it stays put.

These specifications translate directly into performance. The combined low weight of the Photon and Photon Wire carabiners makes the entire quickdraw remarkably light, reducing fatigue on long climbs. The straight gate on the bolt side provides a secure and reliable connection point, while the wire gate on the rope side offers a smooth, snag-free clipping experience. The variable width polyester dogbone is designed for a comfortable grip when you’re needing to clip quickly or rest on your draws, a crucial detail for projecting routes. The Karstop Evo retainer is a small but significant feature that prevents the rope-end carabiner from swinging around excessively, which can be a real annoyance on longer pitches or when leading more challenging terrain.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of a quickdraw is to connect a climber to the protection point securely and efficiently, and the C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws – 6 Pack excel at this. Clipping the Photon carabiner onto a bolt feels positive and secure; the solid gate design inspires confidence. The real magic happens when clipping the rope into the Photon Wire. Its gate opens wide and smoothly, with a satisfyingly crisp action.

The combination of a solid gate on the bolt and a wire gate on the rope is a distinct advantage for mixed climbing and projecting. The solid gate is generally considered easier to clip onto stances or gear, while the wire gate is lighter and less prone to ice buildup or magnetic interference. These draws meet and exceed expectations for their intended use. Their light weight and smooth clipping action make them a joy to use on prolonged efforts.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of these quickdraws is a clear win. C.A.M.P. has managed to create a very clean and minimalist aesthetic. The Photon carabiners are notably compact for their functionality, and the Photon Wire feels exceptionally light. The finish on the carabiners is smooth, with no sharp edges that could snag or abrade the rope.

Ergonomically, the variable width polyester dogbones are a standout feature. They are slightly wider in the middle where your fingers naturally fall, providing an excellent grip for quick clipping or when you need to muscle through a difficult move and briefly hang on the draw. This feature significantly enhances the usability, especially when you’re pumped and trying to maintain focus. The Karstop Evo retainer is also well-integrated, holding the carabiner in place without feeling overly bulky or intrusive.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my testing, these quickdraws appear to be built for longevity. The Photon and Photon Wire carabiners, made from high-quality aluminum alloy, show no signs of premature wear. The wire gates are springy and show no signs of fatigue. The polyester dogbones are also known for their durability and resistance to UV degradation, although I haven’t had them long enough to test that aspect extensively.

Maintenance is straightforward; a simple rinse with fresh water if they get dirty and allowing them to air dry completely is all that’s needed. It’s important to avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals or excessive heat, as with all climbing gear. I haven’t identified any specific failure points, but as with any quickdraw, regular inspection for nicks, cracks, or excessive wear on the carabiners and dogbones is crucial for safety.

Accessories and Customization Options

This pack comes with the essential components: six C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws. There are no extraneous accessories included, which is typical for quickdraws. The primary customization comes in the form of selecting the 11 cm or 18 cm dogbone length, depending on your specific climbing needs. For sport climbing and projecting, the 12 cm length offered here strikes a good balance.

For those who might want to replace a worn-out component, C.A.M.P. does offer replacement Photon and Photon Wire carabiners and dogbones. However, the convenience of purchasing a pre-made pack like this 6 Pack is hard to beat for its value and consistency.

Pros and Cons of C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws – 6 Pack

Who Should Buy C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws – 6 Pack?

The C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws – 6 Pack are ideal for dedicated sport climbers and those who engage in mixed climbing and alpine ascents. If you’re looking to shave weight off your rack for longer pitches or projecting harder routes, these are an excellent choice. They are particularly well-suited for climbers who appreciate refined design and top-tier performance.

Conversely, if you’re primarily cragging on very easy routes where weight isn’t a concern, or if you are on a very tight budget, you might find more basic, heavier quickdraws sufficient. Beginners might also opt for simpler, more traditional quickdraws initially, though the ease of use with these is undeniable. For maximizing performance and minimizing weight, consider pairing these with other lightweight climbing gear.

Conclusion on C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws – 6 Pack

The C.A.M.P. Photon Mixed Express KS Quickdraws – 6 Pack represent a significant investment for any climber, but one that is undoubtedly justified by their performance, weight savings, and thoughtful design. The blend of a solid gate on the bolt and a hyperlight wire gate on the rope, combined with the grippy dogbone and secure retainer, makes for a truly premium piece of climbing equipment. For those who are serious about optimizing their rack for performance climbing, particularly in sport and mixed disciplines, these quickdraws deliver. The price point reflects the high-quality materials and meticulous engineering, offering excellent value for the serious climber. I would wholeheartedly recommend these to anyone looking to upgrade their rack and experience the benefits of ultralight, high-performance quickdraws.