We use a lot of petzl hardware. We haves changed to the SMC lite steel biners, they are smaller and lighter and still G rated. PMI ropes. EVAC bags. Lots more. If you want to know specifics let me know. I not only coordinate the rope gear for our team, I sell the stuff too.
Permalink Reply by Wayne on September 11, 2008 at 9:45pm
Darian,
Well as far as harnesses I find it's personal preference. I use a PMI Avatar with diamond chest (class 3). Some departments near me use the Yates Voyager. I find CMC harnesses a little uncomfortable for me. Hopefully you can try on one first. As far as the gear in general just ensure it is NFPA and G rated if you intend on using it for a real.
Are you soon to be certified? Try to take an Ops level course and you can try gear.
CMC makes good gear but it is a little too expensive for my taste. I have worked with a company out of Georgia called Rescue Technology; search them on the web. Excellent quality and great customer service. It is nice when you have a question about a peice of hardware and the owner of the owner of the company answers your questions.
I'm working on getting into a Ropes II course here in Va. Then onto technician. I'm trying to get all courses of Heavy Tac rescue. Want to be on a USAR team. I need all types of HTR to get my foot in the door...I love ropes now and rappelling is awesome...I like going out the door of a helicopter...Be safe...Darian
We buy lots of Petzl and CMC gear. Great stuff. My industrial teams harnesses are Yates Voyager and my muni teams' are Petzl Navaho. Haven't decided which one I like better.