I get this question all the time- what type of carabiner should I get to carry in my PFD? My first answer is: a locking carabiner. That question is usually followed up with: which carabiner or brand of carabiner do you prefer? That answer is pretty easy too: the Omega Jake Twist Lock (TL) carabiner.
Why do I like it? It is a durable single-stage twist lock carabiner which is easy to unlock and it auto locks when released. A simple and effective design!
I have been using the Omega Jake (TL) for 7 or 8 years. I average 100 days or more on the water per year. I have put these carabiners through their paces in my swiftwater courses throughout the year. The carabiner below is one of the four I carry at all times. As you can see it has taken some abuse; I have buried them in sand, dropped them on rocks and concrete, and left them soaking wet for days. I have had no malfunctions. Maybe this is luck or maybe it is a testament to Omega Pacific's quality hardware. Either way, if you are looking for a rock solid carabiner I advise checking the Jake TL out.
Aaron Peeler
Owner/Operator
H2O Rescue Gear