Product Description
CMI Expedition Ascender (EXPASC)
Designed for long, demanding ascents, the CMI Expedition Ascender delivers exceptional comfort and control on rope. The oversized ergonomic handgrip cushions the hand and provides a solid, confidence-inspiring hold—especially when climbing with gloves or mittens.
An easy-to-operate safety catch, extra-deep rope channel, and dual bottom attachment points make this ascender equally at home in expedition, rescue, and work-at-height environments. The cam design matches CMI’s proven Ultrascenders and is backed by a lifetime wear-out guarantee.
Key features
- Ergonomic comfort grip reduces hand fatigue during long ascents
- Extra-large hand opening accommodates gloves and mittens with ease
- Improved safety catch – now red aluminum for quick visual confirmation
- Extra-deep rope channel promotes smooth, consistent rope tracking
- Dual bottom attachment holes allow flexible tether and lanyard configurations
- Proven cam design with lifetime wear-out guarantee
Specifications
- Minimum Breaking Strength (MBS): 4,000 lbs (17.8 kN)
- Size: 8.0 x 3.8 in (20.3 x 9.8 cm)
- Weight: 10 oz (273 g) each
- Materials: 6061 aluminum body with cast steel cam
- Rope compatibility: 8.5–16 mm for vertical or near-vertical ascending; 5–8 mm fixed ropes
Configuration options
Available as left-hand, right-hand, or a left/right pair. Select your preferred configuration from the dropdown above.
Pro tip:
For maximum efficiency and balance on rope, most climbers prefer using a left and right ascender together. Always verify orientation before loading the device and confirm the safety catch is fully closed.
Basic use overview
The CMI Expedition Ascender is designed for quick, intuitive attachment to the rope while maintaining positive cam engagement and safety catch closure.
- Open the safety catch using your index finger
- Open the cam using your thumb
- Place the rope fully into the rope channel
- Release the cam and allow it to spring back to the closed position
- Release the safety catch and confirm it is fully closed before loading
Repeat the same process when attaching the opposite-hand ascender. Expedition Ascenders are intended to be used as a left/right pair.
Pro tip:
Always visually and physically confirm that both the cam and safety catch are fully closed after installing the ascender on the rope. Improper closure can result in the ascender disengaging from the rope.
Important safety notice
Ascenders are life-support equipment. Proper training, inspection before each use, and appropriate backup systems are essential. Always follow manufacturer instructions and accepted climbing practices.
Specifications
Safety Notice
Although Bishop Lifting strives to manufacture and sell the highest quality rigging and safety gear, use of the gear is dangerous if not used correctly by competent trained professionals. Bishop Lifting disclaims any liability resulting from the misuse of its rigging and safety gear. Please take a moment to more thoroughly review our disclaimer.
Bishop Lifting rigging and safety gear is only intended to be used by competent trained professionals. Misuse of the rigging and safety gear can result in serious injury up to and including loss of life. As such, Bishop Lifting disclaims liability for any misuse or incorrect product selection by our customers.
Rigging and safety gear purchased from Bishop Lifting should be used in strict accordance with all industry and OSHA standards. At no time should rigging or safety gear be used beyond its certified load ratings (aka Working Load Limits). Normal wear and tear should be expected with use of rigging and safety gear; therefore, all gear should be thoroughly inspected before each and every use. Worn or unsafe rigging and safety gear should never be used.