Best Locking Climbing Carabiners of 2025

Michael Daley Avatar
Michael Daley
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Locking climbing carabiners are essential equipment for any climber. These specialized carabiners are designed to provide a secure connection between the climber's harness and the rope, ensuring maximum safety during a climb. Unlike standard carabiners, locking carabiners feature a gate that can be locked in place, preventing accidental opening and ensuring that the rope remains secure at all times. These carabiners are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and materials to suit different climbing styles and preferences. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber, investing in a high-quality locking carabiner is a must for staying safe on the rock face.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Black Diamond Hotforge Screwgate 3 Pack Cover #TOP 1
Black Diamond Hotforge Screwgate 3 Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.8
RHINO Produxs Heavy Duty Lightweight Locking Carabiner Clips Cover #TOP 2
RHINO Produxs Heavy Duty Lightweight Locking Carabiner Clips
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Black Diamond Rocklock Screwgate Carabiner Cover #TOP 3
Black Diamond Rocklock Screwgate Carabiner
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Locking Climbing Carabiners

#TOP 1

Black Diamond Hotforge Screwgate 3 Pack

BD3810791003ALL1
Gray
One Size
Black Diamond Hotforge Screwgate 3 Pack Cover
Black Diamond Hotforge Screwgate Locking Carabiner 3 Pack for Rock Climbing, Mountaineering, Camping, Outdoor, Grey

The Black Diamond Hotforge Screwgate 3 Pack is a set of locking climbing carabiners. These carabiners have a screwgate sleeve and a keylock nose that prevents snagging. The easy-to-hold functional shape and accommodating clove hitch make them convenient to use. They are also hot-forged for lighter-weight construction and are classified as Type B “Basic” locking connectors.

What We Like
Lightweight and strong
Versatile for various activities
Easy to lock/unlock
Durable with smooth action
Affordable and high quality
What We Don't Like
Chipping and anodising wear
#TOP 2

RHINO Produxs Heavy Duty Lightweight Locking Carabiner Clips

SGM7803B
Locking Black
RHINO Produxs Heavy Duty Lightweight Locking Carabiner Clips Cover
RHINO Produxs 2PCS of 12kN (2697 lbs) Heavy Duty Lightweight Locking Carabiner Clips - Excellent for Securing Pets, Outdoor, Camping, Hiking, Hammock, Dog Leash Harness, Keychains, Water Bottle

RHINO Produxs Heavy Duty Lightweight Locking Carabiner Clips are made of aerospace Aluminum 7075 and offer 12kN (2697 lbs.) of strength. The manual screw gate reduces the chance of open-gate failure and its compact design can be operated with one hand. These carabiners are suitable for various purposes such as hammock, camping, hiking, dog leash, keychain, etc. It comes with two key rings for your key chains and has a smooth and snag-free auto lock and screwgate.

What We Like
Heavy-duty and durable
Lightweight and easy to use
Secure locking mechanism
Versatile for various activities
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Pin lever feels slightly weak
#TOP 3

Black Diamond Rocklock Screwgate Carabiner

Black Diamond
Gray
One Size
Black Diamond Rocklock Screwgate Carabiner Cover
Black Diamond Rocklock Screwgate Locking Carabiner for Rock Climbing, Mountaineering, Rappelling, Work, Gray

The Black Diamond Rocklock Screwgate Carabiner, also known as the BD Rocklock Carabiner, is a versatile and reliable locking climbing carabiner. Its square hinge end holds the belay loop securely in place, ensuring your safety during rock climbing. The slightly curved spine maximizes gate opening, making it easy to clip or unclip your rope. The keylock nose prevents snagging, avoiding any potential accidents. The one-hand operable feature allows you to use it with one hand, providing more convenience during your climbing experience. This type H or HMS connector is perfect for dynamic belaying using a Munter Hitch or belay device. Overall, the BD Rocklock Carabiner is a great choice for climbers who prioritize safety, convenience, and versatility.

What We Like
High quality and durable
Lightweight and easy to lock
Strong and reliable performance
Great for various outdoor activities
Good for climbing and general use
What We Don't Like
Limited use for specific purposes
#TOP 4

FresKaro 25kn Climbing Carabiners

FK-1272TN
3PCS-25KNA
FresKaro 25kn Climbing Carabiners Cover
FresKaro 25kn Climbing Carabiners Double Locking Carabiner Clips, Heavy Duty for Rock Climbing, Rappelling, Hunting, or Survival Gear kit, Gym Equipment, Cerfified UIAA Carabiner Black

The FresKaro 25kn Climbing Carabiners are UIAA certified and designed for expert use in tree climbing, hiking, rappelling, rescue, or even locking big adult dogs. They feature quick lock operation with one hand, strong hot-forged construction, deep basket to lessen fumbling, and ultra-lightweight design. The carabiners have a very smooth lock and gate surface, minimizing blood blisters and scratching, and come in a pack of three.

What We Like
Strong and durable construction
Easy one-handed operation
Auto-locking feature
Comes in a convenient 3-pack
Lightweight design
#TOP 5

Favofit UIAA Certified 42kn Safety Carabiner Clips

Black
Favofit UIAA Certified 42kn Safety Carabiner Clips Cover
Locking Climbing Carabiner Heavy Duty: Favofit UIAA Certified 42kn (9441 lbs) Safety Caribeaner Clips - Large Screwgate Rock Mountain Caribiniers for Rescue Firefighter

Favofit Climbing Carabiner is a top-notch safety gear essential for climbers, campers, and rescue workers. With UIAA certification, these carabiner clips are crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum, ensuring lightweight yet durable performance. The screw-lock system guarantees secure attachment, while the warning line acts as a safety reminder. These heavy-duty carabiners are user-friendly, allowing easy one-handed operation. Engineered for robustness, they boast an impressive maximum strength of 42kn and are ideal for various outdoor activities.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Good price/quality ratio
Easy to unlock
Secure gate operation
Excellent material quality
What We Don't Like
Not a double lock
Requires two hands for twisting
#TOP 6

FVW Heavy Duty Climbing Carabiners

FVW
SGM7108TN
3*orange
FVW Heavy Duty Climbing Carabiners Cover
FVW 3 Pieces Heavy Duty Climbing Carabiners, 25KN UIAA Certified Auto Locking Rock Climbing Carabiners Clips for Hammocks, Swing, Locking Dog Leash and Harness, Camping, Hiking & Utility (Orange)

FVW 3 Pieces Heavy Duty Climbing Carabiners are made of aircraft grade aluminum 7075, which is extremely durable and strong. With the twistlock design, it can be easily operated with one hand. The carabiner is large and heavy duty, measuring 4.5in x 2.9in, with a smooth lock and gate surface, making it perfect for daily use, such as attaching to backpacks or using as a keyring. The after-sale service is customer-focused.

What We Like
Heavy-duty construction
High strength rating (25KN)
Auto-locking mechanism
Versatile for various uses
Durable aluminum alloy
What We Don't Like
Auto-locking can be tricky
Weight adds up on trips
#TOP 7

BEIFENG Auto Locking Carabiner for Rock Climbing and Camping

BF-A1272TN
All Black 4Pcs
BEIFENG Auto Locking Carabiner for Rock Climbing and Camping Cover
BEIFENG Auto Locking Carabiner 25KN Professional Rock Climbing Carabiner Obtained UIAA Certification Heavy Duty Carabiners Suitable for Rock Climbing, Camping, Rappelling, Rescue(All Black-4PCS)

The BEIFENG Auto Locking Carabiner is made of aviation-grade aluminum, making it light and strong. Its size and design make it easy to use with one hand. With a lateral load of 7kN and a longitudinal strength of 25KN, it's suitable for a wide range of activities such as rock climbing, camping, and rescue missions. The carabiner has obtained UIAA international certification and comes with a 30-day return and exchange service.

What We Like
Durable and strong construction
Self-locking mechanism
Lightweight and easy to use
Great value for the price
Color-coded for visibility
What We Don't Like
Some users find it slightly bulky
#TOP 8

PETZL TRIACT-Lock Carabiner

M36A TL
Grey
TRIACT-LOCK
PETZL TRIACT-Lock Carabiner Cover
PETZL, William, Locking Carabiner for Belaying, Gray, TRIACT-Lock

The PETZL Carabiner is a lightweight and spacious locking carabiner designed for climbing safety. Its keylock system prevents snagging on gear, allowing for smooth and hassle-free connections. With a generous gate opening of 28mm, you can easily clip and unclip ropes and equipment. The TRIACT-LOCK feature adds an extra layer of security through its automatic locking mechanism, which requires a triple-action to open. This ensures that your gear stays secure, giving you peace of mind while you focus on your climb.

What We Like
Heavy-duty construction
Reliable locking mechanism
Spacious loop for attachments
Good for outdoor activities
Quality brand reputation
What We Don't Like
Chunky locking mechanism
Opening may limit larger items
#TOP 9

AINIKEY Climbing Carabiner Clips

‎‎T-Fly ‎‎1272TN
Black-5PCS
AINIKEY Climbing Carabiner Clips Cover
AINIKEY Climbing Carabiner Clips 25kN Auto Locking Carabiner, Professional Heavy Duty Large Locking Carabiner Clips for Rock/Ice Climbing Rappelling Rescue Swing etc, D Shaped, Large Size(‎Black-5PCS)

The AINIKEY Carabiner Clips are a must-have for any rock or ice climbing enthusiast. Made from ultra durable Aircraft Grade Aluminium Alloy, these carabiners are not only lightweight and portable, but also hold up to 25kN / 5620lbs of weight, making them incredibly secure and reliable. The auto-lock one-handed operation feature allows for easy use with just a simple twist and push, providing convenience and peace of mind while climbing. The D shaped design ensures easy connection and fixation of protectors and belts, with a strong pull force of 2500kg. With a wide range of uses including tree climbing, hiking, rappelling, and rescue, these carabiners are versatile and dependable. Plus, with the added benefit of a 90-day return and exchange service, you can purchase and use them with confidence.

What We Like
Solid and dependable
Lightweight design
Good locking mechanism
Sturdy for climbing
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Smaller size than some prefer
#TOP 10

GDK2 25kN Screwgate Locking Carabiner

1 Pack
GDK2 25kN Screwgate Locking Carabiner Cover
GDK2 Defender CE Certified 25kN Screwgate Locking Carabiner in Size 4.21 x 2.24 inch, Heavy-Duty Carabiners for Climbing, Rappelling, and Mountaineering, Carbon Steel, Midnight Black, 1 Pack

The GDK2 Locking Carabiner is built with high-quality carbon steel, providing a strong yet lightweight option for your climbing and outdoor needs. It boasts a CE certification, ensuring it can handle an impressive weight capacity of 25kN (5,624 lbs), giving you peace of mind during use. Its compact size of 4.21 x 2.24 inches makes it easy to carry and operate with one hand, enhancing your convenience. The screw gate locking mechanism ensures your gear stays secure, whether you’re rappelling, camping, or simply hanging items. This carabiner is a reliable tool for various activities, making it a versatile addition to your gear collection.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Strong locking mechanism
Heavy-duty design
Good for various applications
Sharp black finish
What We Don't Like
Heavier than similar options
Load limit in kilonewtons
Buying Guide Image

What You Need to Know About Locking Climbing Carabiners

Introduction

Climbing carabiners are a crucial piece of equipment for any climber, as they are used to connect the rope to the climbing harness and to other pieces of climbing gear. Locking carabiners are particularly important, as they provide an added level of security by preventing the gate from accidentally opening. In this article, we will discuss how to choose the right locking climbing carabiners for your needs.

Consider the Type of Locking Mechanism

There are two main types of locking mechanisms for climbing carabiners: screw-lock and key-lock. Screw-lock carabiners have a threaded sleeve that must be screwed into place in order to lock the gate, whereas key-lock carabiners have a smooth, keyhole-shaped nose that prevents the gate from snagging on bolts or other gear.

Screw-lock carabiners are generally considered to be more secure, as they are less likely to accidentally unlock compared to key-lock carabiners. However, they can be more difficult to operate with gloves on and may require additional tools to unlock, such as a coin or carabiner wrench.

Key-lock carabiners, on the other hand, are easier to operate and provide a snag-free nose that is less likely to get caught on bolts or other gear. They are also less likely to freeze up in cold weather, as there is no threaded mechanism to become stuck.

Consider the Strength and Diameter of the Carabiner

Climbing carabiners are rated for a certain amount of weight, and it is important to choose carabiners that are strong enough for your needs. The strength rating of a carabiner is typically expressed in kiloNewtons (kN), and most carabiners are rated for between 20 and 30 kN. For most climbing situations, a carabiner rated for at least 24 kN is recommended.

In addition to the strength rating, it is also important to consider the diameter of the carabiner. Thinner carabiners are lighter and less bulky, but they may not be as strong as thicker carabiners. For most climbers, a carabiner with a diameter of around 10-12mm is a good balance of strength and weight.

Consider the Shape and Size of the Carabiner

Climbing carabiners come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and it is important to choose carabiners that are well-suited to the type of climbing you plan to do. For example, if you plan to do a lot of sport climbing, you may want to choose a carabiner with a pear-shaped body and a larger gate opening, as this will make it easier to clip into bolts.

On the other hand, if you plan to do a lot of trad climbing, you may want to choose a carabiner with a D-shaped body and a smaller gate opening, as this will provide a stronger connection to the climbing gear.

It is also important to consider the overall size of the carabiner. Larger carabiners are generally stronger and easier to handle, but they can be bulkier and heavier. Smaller carabiners are more compact and lightweight, but they may not be as strong or easy to handle.

Conclusion

Choosing the right locking climbing carabiners is an important decision, as they are a crucial piece of equipment for any climber. By considering the type of locking mechanism, the strength and diameter of the carabiner, and the shape and size of the carabiner, you can find the perfect carabiners for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many locking carabiners do I need for climbing?

For operating a belay station on a multi-pitch climb, you will need at least 3 locking carabiners, but it's recommended to have 4. Two carabiners are used to operate the belay device in guide mode.

2. How do you keep a carabiner from opening?

To prevent a carabiner from opening, you can use athletic tape. Simply tear off about 4 inches/12 cm of athletic tape, and wrap it around the spine of the carabiner. Make sure not to wrap it too tightly, as it can make it harder to remove later.

3. How much weight can a locking carabiner hold?

A locking carabiner rated at 24kN can safely withstand approximately 5,400 pounds of force. It is important to choose carabiners with appropriate weight ratings that meet your climbing needs for safety and reliability.

4. How much can a 12kN carabiner hold?

A carabiner rated at 12kN (2,697 lbs) is not suitable for climbing according to the UIAA standard. However, it can still be used for other purposes like hanging a hammock. If you are looking for climbing carabiners, it is recommended to search for specific models designed for climbing purposes.

5. How many kilonewtons must a locking carabiner be rated for?

Most carabiners are certified for a minimum of 20 kN when loaded along the major axis, which is their optimal direction of use. During a real climbing fall, the maximum force is around 5 kN. It is important to choose locking carabiners that meet or exceed these minimum weight ratings for safety during climbing activities.

Editor's Notes

During our locking climbing carabiner research, we found 24 locking climbing carabiner products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 99,862 customer reviews through our big data system to write the locking climbing carabiners list. We found that most customers choose locking climbing carabiners with an average price of $20.92.

The locking climbing carabiners are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of locking climbing carabiners, including BLACK DIAMOND, Rhino Produxs, FresKaro, Favofit, FVW. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 345 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Michael Daley Avatar

Michael Daley is a founder of a climbing club. As a climbing expert, he's well-versed in all topics related to travel, including climbing accessories. He loves everything related to climbing and often shares his experience online.

Locking Climbing Carabiners Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand BLACK DIAMOND Rhino Produxs BLACK DIAMOND FresKaro Favofit FVW BEIFENG PETZL AINIKEY GDK2
Color Gray Locking Black - 3PCS-25KNA Black 3*orange All Black 4Pcs Grey Black-5PCS 1 Pack
Item Weight 1 Ounces 28 Grams - 2.01 Ounces 3.25 Ounces 0.6 Pounds 2.3 Ounces 90 Grams 2.3 Ounces 16 Grams
Material Aluminum Aluminum - Aluminum Aluminum - Aluminum Aluminum Aluminum Carbon Steel
Recommended Uses For Product - Outdoor - Climbing Rock Climbing, Camping, Rigging, Working at Heights, Rescue Camping Camping - Climbing -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
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