Maillon

Why a climbing maillon matters

A maillon fills a gap that carabiners do not. It is a threaded connector, a metal link with a screw sleeve you tighten closed, designed for semi-permanent connections. Because it screws shut fully, it is strong in all directions and sits low-profile, which makes it ideal for connections you set up and leave, like joining hardware, rigging plates or components in a system. In rope access, rescue and climbing, maillons are the go-to for links that should stay closed.

When a connection is set and forget, a maillon is often the right choice.

How our maillons are different

We are an independent height safety specialist, so we stock rated maillons from the brands we trust, in shapes and sizes for different jobs.

Every maillon is rated and certified, with strength values you can match to your system, in delta, oval and other shapes. For a life-safety connection, use a rated maillon and tighten it properly with a spanner. You get a strong, secure link built for the job.

See our other connectors: all connectors, locking carabiners, plus anchors and rigging hardware.

How to choose the right maillon for you

1. Match the shape. Delta maillons suit tie-in and multi-directional loading. Oval maillons suit inline connections. Choose for the job.
2. Rating. Use a rated maillon for any life-safety connection, and confirm the strength suits your load.
3. Size. Match the maillon to what it connects and the gate opening you need.
4. Tighten it. A maillon reaches full strength only when the sleeve is tightened with a spanner. Do not leave it hand-tight.

FAQs about Maillons

What is a maillon?

A maillon, or quick link, is a threaded screw-gate connector you tighten closed with a spanner. It is used for strong, semi-permanent connections in rope and rigging systems.

What is the difference between a maillon and a carabiner?

A carabiner has a spring gate for quick clipping. A maillon screws fully shut and is meant to stay in place, giving a strong, low-profile connection for set-and-leave links.

Are maillons rated for life-safety?

Rated maillons are. Use a rated, certified maillon for life-safety connections, check the strength value, and tighten the sleeve properly with a spanner.

What shape maillon do I need?

Delta maillons suit tie-in and multi-directional loads. Oval maillons suit inline connections. Choose the shape for how it will be loaded.

Do maillons need to be tightened with a tool?

Yes. A maillon reaches its rated strength only when the sleeve is tightened with a spanner. Hand-tight is not enough.