Black Diamond Big Gun Harness

We’ve read the reviews across the web for the Black Diamond Big Gun Harness and summarize the results below:

Universal Ranking

PeakScore: 92 (out of 100)
User Rating: 4.7 stars 
Expert Rating: 4.3 stars

Number of Ratings Reviewed: 76

Pros & Cons

Reasons to buy:

User Reviews

  • Very durable and good for years.
  • Lots of useful gear loops and the harness distributes the weight well.
  • Good padding that makes it a very comfortable harness.
  • Easily adjustable buckle system.
  • Two belay loops.

Expert Reviews

  • Offers both support and comfort without being too heavy.
  • Good venting for the amount of padding.
  • Leg loops are easy to drop when needed.

Reasons NOT to buy:

User Reviews

  • Sizing is more limited than other models and only accommodates up to a 39″ waist.
  • Very bulky.
  • It is important to measure your dimensions before ordering this, to make sure that the leg loops fit.
  • Although this is a unisex harness, the dimensions might not fit well for smaller or curvier women.

Expert Reviews

  • The gear loops are not as strong and easy to handle as similar models.
  • The gear loops are cluttered.
  • Without two belt buckles, the harness needs to be continually adjusted when transitioning from hanging to climbing.

Summary:

The Black Diamond Big Gun Harness shines on multi-pitch trad routes because of its maximized padding and comfort, gear loops, and double belay loop. While there are debates about the usefulness of many smaller gear loops instead of a few larger ones, many users like the option for increased organization with the Big Gun’s smaller loops. Although this is an overall much-appreciated and lauded harness, it is important to pay attention to the sizing for the best possible fit, especially as the “unisex fit” is likely more geared towards male bodies.

Multimedia:

Note: User and expert rankings were reviewed across the web, including here: 1, 2.