A single rope geometry assisted belay device with enhanced braking, the ATC Pilot introduces a system that provides an added level of security to your belay, while allowing for smooth rope payout.
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We trust what we make because we use what we make. All Black Diamond products are covered by a two year warranty policy.
You can't tell the history of climbing and mountain sports without telling the history of Black Diamond.
At BD, our passion for innovation is only matched by our desire to use our equipment and experience the success it was designed for. From the world’s first wire-gate carabiner to our cornerstone Camalots, we have always designed gear that enables climbers to push the limits of our sport.
Overall rating: 4.8355265 / 5 from 152 reviews.
The ATC-Pilot Belay Device is praised for its lightweight design, ease of use, and secure feel. Customers appreciate its simple and reliable design, which enhances confidence during climbs. The device is also noted for its gradual lowering and smooth control, making it a great improvement over conventional belay devices.
Review topics: ["size","weight","performance","issues","quality","looks","design","price","feel","durability","movement","works","construction","comfort","metal","features","device","pilot","rope","belay","atc","climbing","grigri","lockers","use","carabiner","simplicity","handles","moving parts","catch"].
"Great belay device! Really enjoy using it and I have used it to teach first timers."
"Love the look and quality."
"I’m really happy with the ATC Pilot. As the quote says, “ Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication”, and I love how such a simple design works brilliantly to meet both safety and ease of use."
"I bought this during a sale in 2025. I prefer it over the dual rope style belay devices as it is easier to feed the rope when belaying."
"Sturdy. Easy to use. Love it!"
"I'm loving the ATC Pilot for belaying lead climbs. It's smooth and intuitive and allows me to quickly feed out rope."
"I like it better than the standard ATC."
"I was sharing a pilot with my partner BUT sometimes I can't find it . . . SO i have my own now! I feel totally I control with this device and so much lighter to travel with"
"Still my favorite gym belay device for top rope and lead climbing. It feeds rope as smooth as a Neox but without the moving parts making weird clicking noises. Also the best belay device for left handed belayers."
"Excellent belay device for indoor and single pitch climbing. It is my go to belay device when I go to any indoor facility. It's a very simple device great for beginners as it is not as complex as a grigri. I've never had any issues with binding, taking or giving slack. I would say for multipitch routes or rappelling a grigri is still the gold standard or a classic like a standard atc. Excellent device for its designed application and less finicky then say the Mammut smart 2. 0 (still a great device)"
