b. Carabiners. The carabiner is one of the most versatile pieces of equipment available in the mountains. This simple piece of gear is the critical connection between the climber, his rope, and the protection attaching him to the mountain. New metal alloys are stronger to hold hard falls; and, they are lighter than steel, which allows the Ranger to carry many at once. Consequently, steel carabiners are used less and less often. Basic carabiners come in several different shapes.