Wire-Gate vs Screwgate vs Auto-Lock: Which Carabiner Should You Use?
It is believed that veteran climbers already have a variety of climbing buckles. But for new rock climbers, how to choose their first climbing buckle? Or how to make a choice when selecting equipment becomes a problem！
Not all carabiners are the same—and choosing wrong wastes money or, worse, creates risk. Here’s the no-nonsense breakdown so you can match the right gate to the job.
What each gate actually is
Wire-gate (non-locking)
A bent piece of stainless wire forms the gate. Super light, snaps shut fast, and resists gate flutter. Great for racking gear and general utility.
Best fit: organizing equipment, camping, everyday carry, and non-PPE uses.
Pair it with: your Wire-Gate 12kN (21 g) for gear attachment (not life support).
Screw-gate (locking, manual)
Twist a sleeve to lock. Simple, cheap, and time-tested. Slightly heavier; slower with gloves.
Best fit: anchors, belays, and any use where a positive lock is mandatory and speed isn’t.
Auto-lock / Twist-lock (locking, automatic)
Two-stage sleeve opens with twist-and-push; auto-closes when you let go. Fast, glove-friendly, and less prone to accidental opening.
Best fit: belay/anchor master points, work-at-height connections, frequent clipping/unclipping.
Pair it with: your Auto-Lock D Carabiner 25kN, EN/UIAA/CE certified.
Pros & cons at a glance
Type |
Wire-Gate |
Screw-gate |
Auto-Lock |
|
✅ |
|
|
|
|
❌ |
|
|
|
Talk more professionally：
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Belay device / rappel → Auto-lock (or screwgate if you prefer manual).
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Anchor master point / top-rope master → Auto-lock.
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Racking cams/nuts, chalk bag, water bottle, camp tools → Wire-gate.
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Work-at-height connectors → Auto-lock that meets EN362/EN365; follow site rules.
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Everyday carry / travel → Wire-gate.
Shape matters too
There are a lot shapes you can choice: D shape, pear shape, B shape and so on. If you don't know which shape you should choice, just choice the traditional shape- D shape. It simple and proved by long term usage.
Safety clarity
If you want choice a carabiner for climbing. You should choice lock carabiners with certifications. Such as: EN12275:2005 / EN362 / EN365 / UIAA / CE certifications.
The most recommended is UIAA, which has more restricted requirements for climbing. Of course, carabiner with multiple certifications is more better. Such as our Auto-Lock D Carabiner 25kN.
Need ultralight gear organization? → Wire-Gate D Carabiner — 12kN, 21 g
