Perks
The HotWire's spring action is sturdy; its wiregate construction means that the gate is unlikely to vibrate open in case of a hard fall. Clipping this carabiner takes a little more effort than clipping with other Black Diamond wiregates, but the action is still smooth and easy to use. The shape of the carabiner helps keep any forces applied to the carabiner properly oriented along its major axis.
Sacrifices
The HotWire carabiner has no major flaws, but its wiregate design means that it can't be locked shut. While the hooded nose on the carabiner makes it difficult to snag rope, webbing or cordage, this can still happen. The HotWire is light but there are lighter carabiners--such as the Trango SuperFly--so if you're carrying a big rack, those few extra grams per HotWire may become a disadvantage.
Bottom Line
The HotWire carabiner is a dependable wiregate carabiner with no major flaws. It's well worth the purchase cost and merits a place on all but the super-lightest of climbing racks.
Article Written By Marie Mulrooney
Marie Mulrooney has written professionally since 2001. Her diverse background includes numerous outdoor pursuits, personal training and linguistics. She studied mathematics and contributes regularly to various online publications. Mulrooney's print publication credits include national magazines, poetry awards and long-lived columns about local outdoor adventures.
