By incorporating a rigid stem on this device, climbers go from full lock-off to whipping out rope in a single, smooth action—no more binding up as the device tries to free itself. The amount of friction can be completely adjusted to suit your particular need. Does your climber outweigh you? Are you using skinny ropes? Then set up the brake line through the V-Slots! Clipping in short (into the oblong hole in the center of the stem) adds even more braking power. The SBGII is a tremendously versatile belay/rappel device that works great on all singles or any double/twin rope system. The rigid stem keeps the working ’bell’ of the device off the rope, providing a silky smooth transition from full lock-off to quickly whipping rope out to the leader. The rigid stem design also permits for figure-8 style rappels, enabling climbers to safely descend single-rope raps when using 8-mm or 9-mm ropes.