I don't know what to think about people who send text messages and talk on cell phones at the crag- Is that a violation of the wilderness act? Something about it just ain't right-
This thread motivated my to get back in practice with an ATC. I gave someone a lead belay at the gym last night with one and realized I really am out of practice so I plan on practicing lots.
I started with an atc and just purchased a grigri and i have fallen in love with it, but that could be because my climbing partner likes to hang for five minutes at a time
I think the real question here should be "Is it safe to talk on the phone, text, pick flowers, eat your lunch etc . . . while belaying?"
The answer is NO! The type of belay device is irrelevant. Paying attention to your climber is the only way to give a proper, safe belay regardless of device.