C.A.M.P. Tricam Evo Review

The C.A.M.P. Tricam Evo Review You’ve Been Looking For

For years, the classic Tricam has been a go-to for climbers and adventurers seeking a unique piece of protection that excels in situations where other gear falls short. C.A.M.P., a name synonymous with innovative climbing equipment, has taken this proven design and evolved it into the C.A.M.P. Tricam Evo. This updated version promises enhanced versatility and stability, aiming to be an even more indispensable tool for those venturing into less-than-ideal placements. My own journey with protection pieces often involves finding the right tool for the job when standard cams are out of the question, and the allure of an improved Tricam was strong.

My initial impression upon unboxing the Evo was one of familiarity mixed with subtle refinement. The anodized aluminum head felt robust, and the integrated sling had a noticeably stiffer feel than I remembered from older models. This sturdiness immediately suggested improved handling, a crucial factor in dynamic climbing environments. I had been considering a set of offset nuts as an alternative for shallow or irregular cracks, but the promise of the Evo’s unique camming action and passive placements kept it at the top of my list. A quick, confident nod of approval was my first reaction; this felt like a tool designed with practical application in mind.

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

My testing ground for the C.A.M.P. Tricam Evo was varied, ranging from carefully constructed aid routes in the gym to the challenging, fractured sandstone of local crags. I focused on scenarios where traditional passive protection or cams might be problematic, such as shallow pockets, flared cracks, and horizontal placements. The Evo’s ability to function as both a cam and a nut was repeatedly put to the test in these situations. During a multi-pitch route, I experienced light rain that left the rock damp, and the Evo’s performance remained consistent, offering secure placements even with slick conditions.

Ease of use was a significant factor; the new, stiffer sling design genuinely made one-handed placements much more manageable, particularly when on lead or in awkward positions. Previously, manipulating Tricams could sometimes feel a bit fiddly, but the Evo felt more direct and responsive. I did encounter one instance where a Tricam snagged unexpectedly during extraction on a horizontal crack, requiring a bit more jiggling than anticipated, but this was a minor hiccup in an otherwise smooth experience.

After several weeks of consistent use, from short sport climbs to a full weekend of multi-pitch trad, the Tricam Evo units have held up remarkably well. The anodized finish shows some minor scuffing, as expected from rock contact, but there are no signs of deformation or structural compromise. The stiffened slings have retained their shape and rigidity, making them just as easy to handle now as they were on day one. Compared to some older, more flexible sewn protection I’ve used, the durability of these slings feels superior, especially when scraped against sharp rock edges. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and airing them out is all that’s needed to keep them in prime condition.

Breaking Down the Features of C.A.M.P. Tricam Evo

Specifications

The C.A.M.P. Tricam Evo units are constructed from a stiffened nylon sling attached to an anodized aluminum head. These pieces are available in four sizes, ranging from 0.25 to 1.5, catering to a broad spectrum of crack sizes. The smallest unit, the 0.25, weighs in at a mere 0.67 oz, making it incredibly light for its placement potential.

This blend of materials is key to the Evo’s performance. The stiffened nylon makes one-handed placements significantly easier, a critical advantage when you’re on a difficult climb and need to move quickly. The anodized aluminum provides a durable and brightly colored head, enhancing visibility and resistance to abrasion. The smaller sizes are incredibly lightweight, which is always a bonus when you’re looking to minimize pack weight on longer adventures.

Performance & Functionality

The core strength of the C.A.M.P. Tricam Evo lies in its unparalleled versatility. It offers three placement modes: an active cam and two distinct passive chock positions. This capability allows it to function effectively in cracks where standard cams might not seat properly or where passive protection would be unstable. I found its performance in horizontal cracks to be particularly impressive, offering a bomber placement when other options were scarce.

Its ability to work in solution pockets, as mentioned in the product description, is not an exaggeration. The unique shape allows it to wedge securely in concave features that would reject a typical cam lobe. While its camming action is reliable and intuitive, the passive placements are where it truly shines in its ability to “work where nothing else can fit.”

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the C.A.M.P. Tricam Evo is a testament to functional evolution. The wider section at the top of the head, a key difference from the original, offers enhanced stability in cammed placements, providing a more secure feel. The stiffened slings are a significant ergonomic improvement, creating a natural stiffening that aids in one-handed manipulation and insertion.

This improved sling design also contributes to durability. By carrying the inner band of webbing further towards the head with a new stitch pattern, there’s an additional layer of material that helps protect against abrasion on sharp rock edges. This thoughtful engineering makes handling the Evo feel more direct and secure, reducing fumbling when seconds count.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its intended use, the C.A.M.P. Tricam Evo is built for resilience. The anodized aluminum heads are robust and can withstand repeated impacts and scrapes against rock without compromising structural integrity. The stiffened nylon slings are also designed for longevity, offering good abrasion resistance thanks to the extended inner band and reinforced stitching.

Maintenance is straightforward; after use, simply clean off any dirt or grime with a brush or cloth and allow them to dry thoroughly before storing. I haven’t encountered any significant wear points after extensive use, though as with any climbing gear, regular inspection for cuts, abrasions, or deformation is always recommended. The overall impression is that these units are built to last for many seasons of hard use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The C.A.M.P. Tricam Evo is a standalone piece of protection, and as such, it doesn’t typically come with accessories. The primary “customization” comes from the four available sizes, allowing climbers to select the perfect unit for specific crack dimensions. The bright anodized colors also serve a functional purpose, aiding in quick identification on your harness.

While there are no direct accessory components, the Evo is designed to integrate seamlessly with standard climbing harnesses and carabiners. Its compatibility with a wide range of carabiners is excellent, and the sewn sling is designed for strength and reliability with standard climbing hardware.

Pros and Cons of C.A.M.P. Tricam Evo

Who Should Buy C.A.M.P. Tricam Evo?

The C.A.M.P. Tricam Evo is an essential piece of gear for any trad climber, especially those who frequently encounter varied or poorly protected rock. It’s ideal for climbers venturing into alpine environments, crack climbing disciplines, or anyone looking to expand their protection options beyond standard cams and nuts. If you find yourself struggling to find secure placements in horizontal cracks, shallow pockets, or flared fissures, this piece of equipment will likely become invaluable.

Those who should consider alternatives are primarily beginners who might benefit from focusing on mastering fundamental placements with standard gear first. If you exclusively climb routes with bomber, parallel cracks, the unique benefits of the Evo might not be fully utilized. For maximum efficiency, I’d recommend pairing these with a few standard cams and a set of nuts, along with a range of locking carabiners.

Conclusion on C.A.M.P. Tricam Evo

The C.A.M.P. Tricam Evo is a masterful evolution of an already legendary piece of climbing protection. C.A.M.P. has managed to enhance the versatility and usability of the Tricam without sacrificing its core strengths. The stiffened slings are a game-changer for handling, and the improved head design boosts confidence in cammed placements. While it may require a bit of practice to master all its nuances, the rewards in terms of secure placements in challenging situations are immense.

Considering its robust construction, enhanced features, and the sheer utility it offers on the rock, the price of the C.A.M.P. Tricam Evo is absolutely justified. It’s not just another piece of gear; it’s a problem-solver for those difficult pitches. I wholeheartedly recommend the C.A.M.P. Tricam Evo to any serious trad climber looking to add a reliable, highly versatile, and confidence-inspiring tool to their rack. If you push the boundaries of where protection can be placed, this unit will not disappoint.