DMM V Twin Review

Likes
What sets this apart from all other devices is the stainless steel construction that gives it a durable feeling. This is the only device that did not show any wear after extended belaying. It also just looks cool. When selecting from a bunch of devices, most people headed for this one. It looks like it is made of that molten stuff the bad guy in Terminator 2 morphed into.

The DMM V Twin payed out rope as well as other top contenders such as the ATC XP. There are rubber dots on the side of the device that give you something to pinch when the device heats up. This is useful at the bottom of the rappel when you are taking the device off the rope.

Dislikes
The V Twin delivers much less friction than most other devices. When lowering a climber at the crags, the belayer wanted to have a belay glove. For skinny ropes, it is especially important to have a glove or to lower really slowly. Also, when a climber is hanging on a route, it takes more effort to hold the climber than with other devices.

While this is a durable device, the hard steel takes a toll on belay biners. This means you either accept extra grooves on your belay biner or use a heavy steel biner to belay with. The V Twin's steel construction also means the device is toward the heavy end of all devices tested.

Best Application
This is ideal for heavy cragging with bigger ropes. If you teach classes or put lots of abuse on your device, the V Twin will last longer than most other devices.

Value
At $26, this is one of the most expensive tube style belay devices. It will last a long time, so long term value is good.