The frictional drag that a rope can exert on you, particularly on a long and winding pitch, can be so strong as to actually make upward progress almost impossible. Sure, if you’ve had the foresight to extend that crucial runner below the roof with a long sling, you’re halfway there, but once you’re trucking up the final headwall, forearms dangerously pumped, and a few more runners placed here and there as the line of the route twists about, it feels like you’re dragging an elephant behind you.
The Revolver also has a further interesting function – it can be used in rescue situations as a pulley. And for added security, there are locking versions available.
