Anyone using the Rock Exotica Mini 8?

[BowhunterXC]

I ordered one of these devices for rappelling and it should be here this coming week.
I've been using the standard Figure 8 with an auto-block and a carabiner. However, I prefer the simplicity of using one device, instead of the Figure 8, plus an auto-block and a carabiner. The "ears" on the Mini 8 will eliminate the need for an auto-block....or so it appears in the videos that I've seen.

Anyone else using the Rock Exotica Mini 8?
How do you like it?

Thank you, BowhunterXC

 

[gcr0003]

How do you figure that it will replace a autoblock? If you mean it would allow you to tie it off to stop then sure, but what an autoblock does is stop you if you slip or lose grip of the rope. Maybe I’m missing something.

 

[BowhunterXC]

How do you figure that it will replace a autoblock? If you mean it would allow you to tie it off to stop then sure, but what an autoblock does is stop you if you slip or lose grip of the rope. Maybe I’m missing something.

Good point! Perhaps I should reconsider how it gets used for rappelling.

 

[Iron_llama]

Good point! Perhaps I should reconsider how it gets used for rappelling.

The way I understand it, the autoblock is there to catch you in the event of a catastrophe - say, a deadhead falls and knocks you out while rappelling. The ability to halt your descent and work hand-free is an added bonus, but not the point of an autoblock. If I'm wrong I hope someone corrects me.

 

[Brocky]

Tying a friction hitch on top allows you to descend at anytime, with it acting as an autobloc when descending.

 

[thegreathoe]

Tying a friction hitch on top allows you to descend at anytime, with it acting as an autobloc when descending.
View attachment 64939

Brocky, how's that tend? I've got a mini8 around, but still in love with the sticht hitch until I can fine a hitchhiker that would like 10mm rope...

 

[BowhunterXC]

Tying a friction hitch on top allows you to descend at anytime, with it acting as an autobloc when descending.
View attachment 64939

I like this idea/knot, but would like to see it tied in a video.
Would you happen to have a link to a YouTube video, to see how this gets used and tied on the Mini 8?

 

[Brocky]

The stopper in back pushes the hitch up easily, the Sticht would be a good choice to use with the mini 8, also.
A better angle on the stopper, just two over hands back to back. The 14 kN break strength is probably strong enough, but I’m used to the limit being 23 kN, the fig 8 sitting next to the hitch also works. The ring in the small hole keeps it in place on this carabiner, so no noise, and it can’t slide past the bend, helping to prevent side loading.