Fall

Black Diamond Recalls Climbing Ascenders Due to Fall Hazard

Recalled 2016-05-19. Fall hazard. Here is what the CPSC published, and what you are owed.

About 2,800Units
2016-05-19Recall date
FallHazard
None reportedInjuries

The text below is quoted from the CPSC notice word for word.

What was recalled
This recall involves Black Diamond brand Index Ascenders (left and right versions) used as rope clamps for rock climbing and mountaineering. The metal ascenders are orange, with a black and gray grip or silver with a black and gray grip. Index Ascenders with a manufacturing code from 4356 to 6015 are included in the recall. The manufacturing code is located on the frame of the ascenders. "Black Diamond" is imprinted on both sides of the handle.
The hazard
The Index Ascenders' rivet holding the toothed cam can release, allowing the Ascender to slide on the rope or become detached from the rope, posing a risk of injury or death to climbers from a fall.
Injuries
None reported
The remedy
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled ascenders and contact Black Diamond for instructions on inspecting and returning the product for a free replacement. Instructions for inspection are also available at https://warranty.bdel.com/IndexRecall/Landing. Only those ascenders having an unformed rivet need to be returned for replacement.

The details

ProductsBlack Diamond Index Ascenders for climbing
Imported byBlack Diamond Equipment Ltd
Made inUnited States
Sold atREI
CPSC recall number16164
What a recall entitles you to

A refund, a repair or a replacement. The notice says which. It costs you nothing and there is usually no receipt requirement.

Stop using the product first. Recalls do not expire. An old one still counts.

The full CPSC notice, including photographs, is at cpsc.gov.

Source: CPSC SaferProducts recall feed, retrieved 2026-08-06. Newest recall on file 2026-07-30.

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