The Gri-Gri will act as something of a “second-hand,” even if the worst should happen and the brake strand is released. Regardless of the context – sport, trad, multi-pitch, single pitch, trad, alpine – it is inherently safer than the ATC.

With a GRIGRI, it is not possible to rappel on the two strands coming out of the anchor. So one must rappel on a single strand, blocked at the rappel ring by a knot attached to a locking carabiner. Rappel only on the strand opposite the knot block; the other strand is used only for retrieving the rope.

Lock the rope with your brake hand, and slowly pull the handle back until you feel resistance. This will disengage the locking mechanism slightly. Hold the handle at this point and slowly lower the climber, making sure to keep hold of the brake rope. To stop lowering, simply let go of the handle.