What is deemed as a general use rating for a carabiner?

The general use rating for a carabiner, which is 11,000 pounds, reflects the strength and safety standards that are typically expected for everyday applications in climbing, rescue operations, and other related activities. This rating indicates that the carabiner has been tested and can safely hold loads up to that weight without failing.

An 11,000-pound rating allows for the consideration of dynamic forces that occur in climbing situations, where the load can shift or jerk. Carabiners are often subjected to varying forces, and having a higher general use rating ensures that they remain reliable under real-world conditions. This rating is crucial for ensuring the safety of individuals who depend on the strength of the carabiner during critical tasks, thus making it the industry standard.

The other ratings represent carabiners designed for specific uses or heavier-duty applications, but the general use rating of 11,000 pounds effectively balances strength and versatility for most standard use cases without being overly specialized for niche applications.