Mad Rock or Sterline F4?
I have narrowed it down to these two.
If you had to choose one or the other which one would you choose and why?
Thanks.
Safeguard. Simple, effective and can be put on or taken off the rope with ease. Never had a problem with the Safeguard. Although the F4 is a nice device, I would hate to have to thread the rope through it. There are times when you want to put on your rappel device and the other end of the rope may be 30 feet away at the bottom of a tree, or coiled in your pack. Be aware, the Safeguard spec calls for a minimum of 9mm rope. So if you plan to use 8mm, I wouldn't recommend the Safeguard.
As mentioned, there are many other options for rappel like Figure 8s, ATCs, hitches and carabiners, etc. These are good and tried rappelling options, but IMO, for someone new to rappel in this application, I think the Safeguard is simple and easy learn and use safely. Once you gain more confidence you may wish to learn other devices and techniques. Not that these are difficult techniques to learn, but if you are not familiar with rappelling and belaying terms, devices, hitches, knots, etc. it can be a bit intimidating and confusing. I have become comfortable with the figure 8, which I now use due to compatibility with 8mm rope and it is a simple device. I still have and use my Safeguard. Good luck.