TCUs are great for both alpine and free climbing, where weight is a critical factor. Aid climbers also love 'em because their narrow head width allows them to fit so many placements that other cams won't, like shallow seams, pockets and pin scars. And Metolius's Range Finder available on larger-sized cams — tells you at a glance if you've grabbed the right size cam for the placement.

This cam's stainless steel, U-shaped body offers more durability than single-stem units, plus greater control during placement and retraction. Their direct to the axle (D.A.T.) technology has helped Metolius make this best-selling mini cam even lighter. DAT also makes tricky placements easier, due to better cam lobe visibility, especially in the smaller sizes. Hand built, inspected and individually proof tested in Bend, Ore.

Specs