Petzl GriGri2 Belay Device is Recalled

The Petzl GriGri2, a new belay device released this past spring, is being recalled because the handle of some GriGri2's can jam open in the open position, disabling the device's braking function. Petzl found that if a climber exerts excessive force on the fully extended handle of the GriGri2 then internal damage can cause the handle to be stuck open.

When this happens, the GriGri2 functions like a tubular belay device so the user should keep his brake hand on the rope rather than letting go.

When the handle is open the belayer might fail to control the braking side of the rope, leading to the possibility of an uncontrolled descent, resulting in injury. Petzl recommends that a GriGri2 with a damaged handle be immediately retired and sent to Petzl for replacement.

Petzl says that because climber safety is their primary concern that the company is recalling all GriGri2's with the first five digits of the serial number between 10326 and 11136. Check the serial number on your device by locating it on the outside of the GriGri2. Look at the first five digits of the 11 digit number. The recall includes GriGri2's of all colors. Petzl will replace your device with a new one with a handle with increased mechanical strength and will pay shipping costs. As of mid-June, Petzl had seven out of some 40,000 devices returned.

Romain Lecot, Petzl's General Director, says, "While the potential risk of damaging the GRIGRI 2's handle is very small, our total commitment to the safety of our users has led us to make this decision. With the summer climbing season just beginning, Petzl understands that this recall comes at an inconvenient time and we are working hard to ensure that everyone receives their replacement GRIGRI2 as quickly as possible."

This recall does not apply to the first generation GriGri, which has a long record of belaying safety.

To return your Petzl GriGri2, send it to the Petzl distribution center in your country. For residents of the USA and Canada, send an email to grigri2recall@petzl.com or call (800) 932-2978 for recall details. Residents of other countries should visit the Petzl website for a list of contacts.

Photograph above: The GriGri2's handle can become stuck in the open position. If that happens, keep your brake hand on the rope to avoid dropping the climber. Photograph courtesy Petzl.