Assisted Braking Belay devices
Assisted Braking belay devices are also called semi-automatic.
The semi-automatic operation ensures that the belay device immediately blocks in the event of a fall. The use of these belay devices is increasingly recommended, mainly due to the extra safety and simple operation.
There are many different self-locking belay devices that can often react slightly differently. It is therefore a good idea to try out the soaking before use.
Brake hand dependent
With a brake hand-dependent semi-automatic belay device (the Edelrid Jul2), the braking effect is the result of the friction between the rope and carabiner/device, just like with tubers. However, with this car tube-like device, the rope is clamped onto the carabiner in such a way that the rope blocks. This means you don't have to exert much force with the braking hand to block a climber or catch a fall. With these devices, the operation depends on the position of the brake hand and the carabiner used (diameter and shape).
Braking hand independent
With a brake hand-independent semi-automatic belay device (the Petzl GriGri), the rope does not run through the carabiner, but the braking effect takes place entirely within the device. The user's hand strength and the position of the braking hand do not affect the braking performance of the device.
The Petzl GriGri is one of the most popular semi-automatic blocking belay devices.