Great brake assist device, for belaying and rappeling - Edelrid Mega Jul Sport Belay Device

After using tubers for a couple decades, I thought it was time to check out one of the newer devices, to give my brake hand a break when belaying someone working a route. After lots of searching, the original Megajul fit the bill. Awesome, light, cheap, and effective. It was just a little 'stuttery' when lowering.

I got it before realizing that this model was available. This is definitely better. It doesn't have the 'guide/top belay' capability of the original, but I still have that one if I ever need that. And a guide ATC, for that matter. The Megajul Sport just feeds better, both when belaying someone up, or lowering them down.

So, for 2/3 the price of a grigri, I now have two devices that do essentially the same thing, plus they can both do double-rope rappels, with the same auto-locking ability that they have when belaying. I can give one to a partner who wants or needs that extra safety factor, and still have one for myself.

No-brainer.