As an HMS, or pear-shaped carabiner, the Pirate easily accommodates the use of a wide range of gear, webbing or ropes - either as a belay biner at the harness, or as a connector in a system. The Pirate's robust 0.5" diameter round frame will endure abuse from dirty ropes and metal connectors far beyond stamped carabiners with thin edges. The ORCA is a unique gate system that lifts up and twists just like many traditional auto-locks, but can be set to remain in the unlocked position. This allows the gate to open easily, just like a non-locker, but close with the security of an auto-lock.