Smileys rock pro

Any opinions on the quality of Smiley's pro? It can be obtained at significantly lower prices than say BD pro.

thanks, Dennis

Virtually identical knock offs. Work fine

You could find tons of info on Smileys with a Deja search, but the summary would probably go like this

'yeah, it's good, works just like BD,'cause they ripped off the design and aren't paying for the R&D'

which is then retorted; 'but so and so worked for BD before quitting and starting smileys, so it's Ok'

Despite the fact that BD was paying the guy when he worked there, and that's just the exact R&D BD paid for.

I was under the impression that they (smiley's) were bought out by OMEGA. At least that's what the omega guy said at wild iris a few months back. The stuff I've used was fine and worked well, for all that's worth. As far as contrasting stuff, everyone uses specific brands for a variety of reasons. I've never liked aliens, but know they work great, I use metolius cams, same goes for shoes and ropes. Partly based on function, but sometimes all the gear will function the way you want it to, then it comes down to what you'd prefer. And money sometimes (usually, if not always) factors in to the equation as well. Just remember that more money can always be found. Be safe and enjoy. Charles T

Rob 'made my quota at san quentin'

For me, quality extends to research and development. Black Diamond does excellent R&D. If you are looking for cheap, you could sling machine nuts just like the olde days.

<<<omega: medium-security protection.

Rob 'made my quota at san quentin'>>>

Omega manufactures inside a prison in Spokane, Washington.

Their agreement with the state means that they pay prevailing wage for the people who work for them.

From what I've seen, they are putting up with considerable hassle (tools checked in and out, searches on entrance and exit, nasty people, etc) to give the people inside some kind of work and, perhaps, a skill that they'll be able to use when they get out. Is learning how to run a metal lathe better than learning the latest mugging techniques?

This company is doing a work of charity and kindness while manufacturing a product that serves us all well.

Omega did buy Smiley's. They've now introduced a line of mountaineering gear which is priced well and looks good. Look for more innovation from this company.

<<<'yeah, it's good, works just like BD,'cause they ripped off the design and aren't paying for the R&D'>>>

The notion that BD did the R&D for the stuff smiley's was producing is mistaken. Nuts, Belay Devices and Screws have been produced for a long time, and not just by BD. I have no doubt that if there were any copyright infringement, BD would pursue it. The absence of action implies to me an absence of wrongdoing.

Karl, when you placed some of my Smiley's Nuts last month, did you notice any difference between them and BD Stoppers? My impression is they're identical aside from the anodized finish and the price.

yes, I know you like Frost Sentinel Nuts better anyway... (:

Not wishing to get into a long debate, I defer to: www.climerware.com/frost.shtml

I read this page and was a little worried that one reason you like Frost nuts is that they are easy to clean, then you also appear to advocate clipping the rope directly to the nut (i.e. no sling to reduce the rope wiggle on the nut).

Maybe with that method they'll be easier to clean than you want!