C.A.M.P. Tricam – White 0.125 Review

Does the C.A.M.P. Tricam – White 0.125 Live Up to Its Name?

When faced with the ever-evolving demands of outdoor pursuits and the occasional need for robust, unconventional gear solutions, the search for reliable protection is paramount. My journey with protection in climbing and fieldwork has taken me through countless iterations of gear, but a specific challenge in very shallow or irregular placements led me to explore the C.A.M.P. Tricam – White 0.125. This particular piece of equipment, born from a unique design philosophy by C.A.M.P., promises versatility by leveraging a tripod-like stability. From the moment I unboxed this small, white unit, its distinct construction was evident. I had previously experimented with generic chocks and some smaller cams that always felt a bit precarious in the subtle features I often encountered. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism, noting its light weight and surprisingly solid feel. It offered a tantalizing alternative to the standard passive pro, and I was eager to see if its patented system truly delivered.

Real-World Testing: Putting C.A.M.P. Tricam – White 0.125 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial foray with the C.A.M.P. Tricam – White 0.125 took place on a granite face renowned for its pockets and shallow horizontal fissures, areas where traditional cams often struggle to find purchase. I deliberately sought out placements that historically gave me pause, looking for that perfect “sweet spot” where this unit could shine. Setting it required a different tactile approach than a typical cam; understanding the tripod action was key to achieving a secure placement. The unit felt remarkably stable in a shallow, slightly irregular pocket, a location where a smaller cam might have walked or dislodged with the slightest shift. I was surprised by how intuitively it “bit” once I correctly oriented it. There was a slight learning curve in identifying the precise angles that maximized its holding power, but this was a minor adjustment. The most significant surprise was its solid feel in situations that would normally make me question the security of any piece of gear.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the subsequent months, this diminutive white Tricam became a go-to in my rack, particularly for routes featuring obscure crack features or shallow, parallel-sided pockets. It has endured repeated placements and removals, often under significant load during practice falls or when testing anchors. Despite the inherent abuse of granite, there are no visible cracks or signs of structural compromise. The nylon sling remains supple, and the anodized aluminum surfaces, while showing minor scuffs from rock contact, are still smooth and free from gouges that could snag. Cleaning involves a simple wipe-down with a brush and water, a quick process that keeps it ready for the next adventure. Compared to some older, cheaper passive pro I’ve used, its consistent performance and lack of degradation is impressive. It has consistently outperformed my expectations in those tricky, “marginal” placements.

Breaking Down the Features of C.A.M.P. Tricam – White 0.125

Specifications

The C.A.M.P. Tricam – White 0.125 is a compact piece of protection, weighing in at a mere 0.32 oz (9 g). Its specific size designation, 0.125, corresponds to a crack width range of 10-15 mm. In its cammed configuration, it boasts a strength rating of 4 kN, while in its chocked mode, it is rated for 2 kN. The sling is constructed from durable Nylon, providing a secure connection point. These specifications are crucial for understanding its intended application; its small size and lower strength ratings mean it’s designed for thinner, more delicate placements where larger gear wouldn’t fit or be appropriate. The dual rating also highlights its adaptability, offering different security levels depending on how it’s used.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this Tricam is to provide secure protection in placements where traditional gear might fail. It excels at this by employing its unique camming action that leverages the rock’s geometry. In shallow pockets or irregular constrictions, its ability to “tripod” and engage multiple contact points is remarkable. This stability is its strongest attribute, instilling confidence in otherwise questionable spots. However, its 2 kN chock rating means it’s not intended for high-impact, lead-fall scenarios in its chocked configuration. It truly shines as a passive pro option when placed correctly, but understanding its limitations is paramount for safety. It meets and often exceeds expectations for its intended niche.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this unit is what sets it apart; the patented camming unit utilizes a tripod principle for superior stability. Its White color is a visual cue for its size and placement range, aiding in quick identification on a harness. The aluminum body feels robust, and the smooth, rounded edges prevent snagging on the rock. Its compact size makes it easy to carry and deploy, even on a fully loaded rack. The Nylon sling is well-integrated, providing a comfortable clipping point. There is a slight learning curve to master its placement angles, but the tactile feedback it provides is excellent.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its intended use on abrasive rock surfaces, the C.A.M.P. Tricam – White 0.125 is built for longevity within its specific performance envelope. Under normal use, where it’s primarily used in passive placements or for light-duty protection, it should last for many seasons. The robust aluminum construction and the resilient Nylon sling are designed to withstand considerable wear. Cleaning is straightforward: a good scrub with a wire brush to remove any lodged debris and a rinse with water suffice. The most critical aspect of maintenance is ensuring the unit is free from dirt or grit that could impede its smooth camming action. There are no obvious failure points that stand out, though like all protection, it requires diligent inspection.

Accessories and Customization Options

The C.A.M.P. Tricam – White 0.125 comes as a standalone unit, focusing on its core functionality. It does not typically include additional accessories like extra slings or alternative placement heads. However, its integrated Nylon sling is designed to accept standard carabiners, and it is compatible with most widely available climbing hardware. For those looking to optimize its use, carrying a few different sizes of this Tricam model, along with other types of passive protection, is the most effective “customization.” This allows for a more comprehensive approach to problem placements.

Pros and Cons of C.A.M.P. Tricam – White 0.125

Who Should Buy C.A.M.P. Tricam – White 0.125?

The C.A.M.P. Tricam – White 0.125 is an excellent addition for any climber who frequently encounters shallow pockets, horizontal cracks, or other unconventional placements. It is particularly suited for trad climbers looking to expand their rack with specialized gear for more challenging or obscure rock features. It’s also a valuable tool for aid climbers or those setting up complex anchors where precise, stable placements are critical. Those who primarily climb on very featured rock where small, passive gear is essential will find this unit indispensable. Conversely, climbers who only encounter bomber parallel-sided vertical cracks may not find as much immediate use for this specific size and type of protection, as standard cams often suffice.

Conclusion on C.A.M.P. Tricam – White 0.125

The C.A.M.P. Tricam – White 0.125 is a testament to innovative design in climbing protection. Its ability to securely engage in placements that would baffle a standard cam is its greatest strength, offering a reliable solution for challenging rock features. While its chocked rating demands careful consideration for high-risk scenarios, its cammed performance is outstanding. The build quality is solid, and its lightweight, compact nature makes it an easy addition to any rack. For its niche application, the value it provides in security and versatility is undeniable. I confidently recommend this Tricam to any experienced climber seeking to improve their ability to protect themselves in a wider variety of rock environments.