I spotted 3x D shackles that were used for bailing in Montagu over December.

D shackles are more dangerous than they're worth (when used for bailing), rather use maillons (quick links) or leaver biners!! A reasonable maillon will cost you R15 from a hardware store.

Remember: Do not to trust a single bolt when lowering/bailing - always back up.

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Climb ZA - Administrator

Can you elaborate on why D's are more dangerous then Mailons. Is it that they may open more easily?

Yes, the pin working loose is the problem.

e.g.
- If weight is taken off the rope halfway down whilst lowering/abseiling, the shackle is unloaded and loaded again (basically movement that can cause the pin to loosen or the shackle to swivel 180' which takes us to the last point).
- The pin works loose because it is not tightened properly (no pliers available)
- If the shackle turns 180' and rope slips over it in the correct direction the pin can be loosened - see crude pic below.

It is unlikely that a D shackle will work loose, but the chance is there and it's just not worth the R10 saving + hospital time/body retrieval.
Use a biner or a maillon

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Climb ZA - Administrator