FAQ's & TechTips

If you were unable to find answers to your questions via our product pages, you should be able to find them here.
General
Lighting
Verticality
General
What does WLL mean?

WWL stands for Working Load Limit.

The WLL is the maximum authorized load that can be borne when working with a device. 

What is Petzl's guarantee policy?

Petzl products are guaranteed for three years against any defects in materials or manufacture.
To analyse defects in materials and manufacture, contact our After-Sales Service to get the procedure for your country:

Australia - Lodge a Support Request with the Distributor's After-Sales Support Team

 

Exclusions from the guarantee:

  • normal wear
  • oxidation
  • leaking batteries in headlamps
  • modifications or alterations
  • poor storage
  • poor maintenance
  • damage due to accident or negligence
  • damage due to use of product for which it is not designed

The Petzl guarantee also does not apply if:

  • the serial number is no longer legible
  • any label has been removed from a harness
  • a helmet has been written on with a marker or covered by stickers
  • the product has been modified or repaired by a third party

If the product is covered by the guarantee, and is reparable, it will be repaired immediately and quickly returned to you. Irreparable products will be replaced.


If the product is not under guarantee, but is reparable, a repair quote will be proposed before repair. You will not be billed without your consent.


After analysis, Petzl will decide to repair, replace or return the product as is to the address you have provided.

For a headlamp, please remove the batteries before sending it, if you are required to return it to a Service Centre.

How do I find out when my PPE was manufactured?
Two different product markings can help you identify the date of manufacture:
 

1. Serial number: starts with the year and month of manufacture. The month is indicated by a letter (A: January, B: February,... J: October, K: November, L: December) and it corresponds to the date on which production started for the product batch.



9_âge EPI.JPG

2. Manufacture date: this is easily found beside the MM/YY (month/year) factory icon and corresponds to the date on which manufacturing of the product was completed. 

 

 

A single batch of products can be manufactured over several days, potentially beginning at the end of one month and ending early the next one. So there may be a one-month difference between the two markings. In this case, you can use the more recent date for your PPE inspection.

 

Metal products have an unlimited lifespan. Products containing textiles and/or plastic have a lifespan of 10 years.

Individual Serial Numbers

Serial Number Evolution

In order to improve the product manufacturing traceability, Petzl decided to evolve the codification of the individual Serial Number of its PPE. The new codification will include the manufacturing batch number, which will give to Petzl a faster and more precise access to all manufacturing data. 

User-added image

This change was put in place progressively for all of our PPE throughout 2016 and 2017.

Note: For the new B coding, the month of manufacturing is indicated by a letter. A corresponds to January, B to February, C to March, and so on.

Also note that these changes were integrated progressively for the technical notices.

Therefore, for products manufactured in 2016 and 2017, you may observe some differences between the serial number listed on the technical notice and the serial number listed on your PPE.


The Datamatrix has also changed. With the new codification (type B), only the individual serial
number is readable when scanning the Datamatrix.

 

What is the Datamatrix?

You may have noticed a 2D code printed on each piece of Petzl PPE gear (or rechargeable headlamps), it looks like a QR code. It’s not exactly a QR code, it’s actually a 2D Rectangular Datamatrix code and it contains the individual serial number of that piece of gear. This can be scanned into a spreadsheet, database or tracking software such as Papertrail or Scannable.

The codes can be scanned by a compatible 2D Scanner* or even a phone. If using a phone, low contrast items  i.e. greys or silvers may require the follwoing tricks:

  • make sure the karabiner is on a flat surface and the code is level
  • make sure you have good lighting
  • if that doesn’t work take a closeup clear photo of the code and then use NeoReader® App (more info below) and select code from the photo gallery.

If you use a phone-based inspection App, such as Papertrail or Scannable, this will save you a heap of time, particularly when inspecting heaps of karabiners!

There are several really good FREE phone based scanning apps for 2D codes, in Australia we tested and had success with these two:

Apple:   NeoReader and i-nigma   

Android:    NeoReader and i-nigma   

Windows:  NeoReader  and i-nigma

 

You can scan the serial number and then copy/paste to a spreadsheet on your phone, scan straight into an inspection app or send it to someone via text or email.

If you are working from a desktop/notebook, then using a 2D Barcode Scanner (USB or Bluetooth) is the way to go. 

You can scan the serial number straight into a cell on a spreadsheet or a database, saving you time and money without the need for expensive RFID Chips or stickers that other manufacturers charge you for, as the 2D codes are printed on every piece of PPE by Petzl. Apps like Papertrail and Scannable also include the Petzl Inspection routines as per the manual Petzl forms you can find on the Petzl website.

 

How do I buy a Petzl product?
Petzl does not sell directly to individuals (except in the US). In Australia we have an extensive dealer network in both the Sport and Professional markets, use the dealer locator  to find the Petzl dealer closest to you.
What does WLL mean?

WWL stands for Working Load Limit.

The WLL is the maximum authorized load that can be borne when working with a device. 

What is Petzl's guarantee policy?

Petzl products are guaranteed for three years against any defects in materials or manufacture.
To analyse defects in materials and manufacture, contact our After-Sales Service to get the procedure for your country:

Australia - Lodge a Support Request with the Distributor's After-Sales Support Team

 

Exclusions from the guarantee:

  • normal wear
  • oxidation
  • leaking batteries in headlamps
  • modifications or alterations
  • poor storage
  • poor maintenance
  • damage due to accident or negligence
  • damage due to use of product for which it is not designed

The Petzl guarantee also does not apply if:

  • the serial number is no longer legible
  • any label has been removed from a harness
  • a helmet has been written on with a marker or covered by stickers
  • the product has been modified or repaired by a third party

If the product is covered by the guarantee, and is reparable, it will be repaired immediately and quickly returned to you. Irreparable products will be replaced.


If the product is not under guarantee, but is reparable, a repair quote will be proposed before repair. You will not be billed without your consent.


After analysis, Petzl will decide to repair, replace or return the product as is to the address you have provided.

For a headlamp, please remove the batteries before sending it, if you are required to return it to a Service Centre.

How do I find out when my PPE was manufactured?
Two different product markings can help you identify the date of manufacture:
 

1. Serial number: starts with the year and month of manufacture. The month is indicated by a letter (A: January, B: February,... J: October, K: November, L: December) and it corresponds to the date on which production started for the product batch.



9_âge EPI.JPG

2. Manufacture date: this is easily found beside the MM/YY (month/year) factory icon and corresponds to the date on which manufacturing of the product was completed. 

 

 

A single batch of products can be manufactured over several days, potentially beginning at the end of one month and ending early the next one. So there may be a one-month difference between the two markings. In this case, you can use the more recent date for your PPE inspection.

 

Metal products have an unlimited lifespan. Products containing textiles and/or plastic have a lifespan of 10 years.

Individual Serial Numbers

Serial Number Evolution

In order to improve the product manufacturing traceability, Petzl decided to evolve the codification of the individual Serial Number of its PPE. The new codification will include the manufacturing batch number, which will give to Petzl a faster and more precise access to all manufacturing data. 

User-added image

This change was put in place progressively for all of our PPE throughout 2016 and 2017.

Note: For the new B coding, the month of manufacturing is indicated by a letter. A corresponds to January, B to February, C to March, and so on.

Also note that these changes were integrated progressively for the technical notices.

Therefore, for products manufactured in 2016 and 2017, you may observe some differences between the serial number listed on the technical notice and the serial number listed on your PPE.


The Datamatrix has also changed. With the new codification (type B), only the individual serial
number is readable when scanning the Datamatrix.

 

What is the Datamatrix?

You may have noticed a 2D code printed on each piece of Petzl PPE gear (or rechargeable headlamps), it looks like a QR code. It’s not exactly a QR code, it’s actually a 2D Rectangular Datamatrix code and it contains the individual serial number of that piece of gear. This can be scanned into a spreadsheet, database or tracking software such as Papertrail or Scannable.

The codes can be scanned by a compatible 2D Scanner* or even a phone. If using a phone, low contrast items  i.e. greys or silvers may require the follwoing tricks:

  • make sure the karabiner is on a flat surface and the code is level
  • make sure you have good lighting
  • if that doesn’t work take a closeup clear photo of the code and then use NeoReader® App (more info below) and select code from the photo gallery.

If you use a phone-based inspection App, such as Papertrail or Scannable, this will save you a heap of time, particularly when inspecting heaps of karabiners!

There are several really good FREE phone based scanning apps for 2D codes, in Australia we tested and had success with these two:

Apple:   NeoReader and i-nigma   

Android:    NeoReader and i-nigma   

Windows:  NeoReader  and i-nigma

 

You can scan the serial number and then copy/paste to a spreadsheet on your phone, scan straight into an inspection app or send it to someone via text or email.

If you are working from a desktop/notebook, then using a 2D Barcode Scanner (USB or Bluetooth) is the way to go. 

You can scan the serial number straight into a cell on a spreadsheet or a database, saving you time and money without the need for expensive RFID Chips or stickers that other manufacturers charge you for, as the 2D codes are printed on every piece of PPE by Petzl. Apps like Papertrail and Scannable also include the Petzl Inspection routines as per the manual Petzl forms you can find on the Petzl website.

 

How do I buy a Petzl product?
Petzl does not sell directly to individuals (except in the US). In Australia we have an extensive dealer network in both the Sport and Professional markets, use the dealer locator  to find the Petzl dealer closest to you.
Beam pattern

Beam pattern is a key factor in lamp selection. Be sure to select a beam pattern that works well for your chosen application. A flood beam is not suitable for distance vision in the mountains. In the same way, a focused beam won't work well for proximity vision or reading a map. This is why this factor is a key design element, among others, in the Petzl headlamp line. Thus, the lamps feature different beam patterns, in order to best suit the diverse needs of our users. These range from a flood beam for proximity vision, to a focused beam to see at a distance or probe a specific location.

 

Wide beam

 

  Wide beam



It emits uniform, close-range light for stationary activities or those requiring slower movement.

Activities: travel, family, children, camping, DIY, home use, repair work, reading...

 

Mixed beam (flood + focused)

 

  Mixed beam



It combines a wide beam for good ground lighting with a focused beam for added depth. This beam is adapted to close-range vision and to moving around.

Activities: hiking, trekking, mountaineering, caving...

 

Focused beam

 

  Focused beam



It concentrates the light to shine long distances and therefore allows long-range, precise vision.

Activities: trail running, expeditions, technical mountaineering, back-country skiing, multi-activity races, biking, orienteering...

 

 
Beam quality

Aside from the various beam patterns, it is important to check their uniformity. Whatever the pattern, the beam of a Petzl headlamp is always uniform and therefore comfortable.

Moreover, to ensure optimal lighting, the optics of our headlamps are designed with extreme precision and equipped with the highest-quality components.

The quality of the beam is totally dependent on that of the LEDs and of the optics' design. The latter is complex and requires the knowledge of an optical engineer. Petzl chose long ago to integrate these skills into its research and development teams, and also to work closely with external laboratories.

Petzl headlamps:

Uniform beam

Perfectly uniform beam: no dark spots, irregularities or blinding spots to impede visibility and reduce visual comfort.

The beams of other headlamps:

Blinding beam

Presence of a central bright spot: blinding

Beam defect

Presence of visual defects: lack of precision, discomfort, fatigue

 
 
Brightness or burn time, a question of balance

Brightness versus burn time

 
Brightness

(lumens)		   Burn time

(hours)
Black arrow or Yellow arrow
Prioritizing brightness over burn time   Prioritizing burn time over brightness

 

Brightness and burn time are two inextricably linked parameters of any headlamp, regardless of its lighting technology. For a given quantity of energy, increasing the brightness automatically decreases burn time, and vice versa.

 

For a compact headlamp worn entirely on the head, the energy source (standard or rechargeable battery) often has a limited capacity in order to reduce size and weight for the sake of comfort. In spite of the improved performance of today's LEDs and batteries, this still limits the capacity of a headlamp to provide both significant brightness and long burn time.

Non-rechargeable energy sources

UTMB 2013 © Lafouche

Alkaline batteries

Alkaline batteries are widely used and available worldwide, and perform considerably better than saline batteries. They are also well-suited for most modern cordless electrical equipment.

  • Strong points: availability, shelf life.
  • Weak points: they need to be regularly replaced for intensive use of the product.
 

 

Lithium batteries

Lithium batteries perform better than alkaline or Ni-MH batteries at extreme temperatures, and work well over a wider range of temperatures. Most Petzl lamps that work with non-rechargeable batteries are compatible with lithium batteries (see the Instructions for Use for more information).

  • Strong points: better performance characteristics and ability to work at extreme temperatures (-20 to +50° C).
  • Weak points: more expensive than alkaline batteries.
How to travel by airplane with a headlamp?


Before the trip, it is preferable to check the airline's rules, as well as local regulations for the destination country.



Petzl recommends putting your lamp in LOCK position to prevent it accidentally turning on during transit.

Can I mount a headlamp on my bicycle?
Petzl offers mounting brackets, however, when used in an area governed by traffic regulations, Petzl lights are not a substitute for required standardised lights.


BIKE ADAPT : plate for mounting a Petzl headlamp on bicycle handlebars or seat post. Compatible with the following headlamps: TIKKINA®, TIKKA®, ACTIK®, ACTIK® CORE (versions before 2022), BINDI®, TACTIKKA®, TACTIKKA® + and TACTIKKA® +RGB.

BIKE ADAPT 2 : plate for mounting a Petzl headlamp on bicycle handlebars or seat post. Compatible with the following headlamps: TIKKINA®, TIKKA®, TIKKA® CORE, ACTIK®, ACTIK® CORE (2022 models and later), SWIFT RL (2023 models and later), ARIA 1 RGB and ARIA 2 RGB.

Mount for bicycle handlebars : plates for mounting DUO headlamps on bicycle handlebars.
 
Do not use a lamp in REACTIVE LIGHTING mode when road biking: the lamp can dim significantly when exposed to automobile headlights.

Warning, Petzl lamps are not certified for road use. 
Can I replace an LED on a headlamp?

At Petzl, we do our utmost to keep up with evolving high-power LED technology and are equipping all our new headlamps with these LEDs.

 

Unfortunately, high-power LEDs in headlamps cannot be replaced and are not available as spare parts.

 

Their lifespan is considered sufficient and long enough not to require replacement, unlike incandescent bulbs. 

How to Put the Buckle Back on the ACTIK / TIKKA / TIKKINA Headband ?

This FAQ concerns ACTIK / ACTIK CORE / TIKKA / TIKKA CORE / TIKKINA headlamps sold after 2022.

The video below explains how to put the buckle (shown in orange) back on the headband if it falls off.

How can I find out the model and age of my Petzl headlamp?

All our headlamps are marked with their precise commercial designation.

A date stamp with the month and year is engraved on Petzl headlamps.
The date stamp is a small circle that looks like a clock. Inside this circle there is a two-digit number that corresponds to the headlamp’s year of manufacture. The dial represents the 12 months of the year, and an arrow points to the month of manufacture

dateur TIKKA 5_LD.jpg

 

For lamps with rechargeable batteries, you need your mobile phone to scan a datamatrix code. This datamatrix code provides a number with the year and month of manufacture.dateur BINDI_LD.jpg

 

To find the date stamp on Petzl headlamps:

  • e+LITE: the date stamp is under the batteries.
  • TIKKA: open the headlamp’s battery case; the date stamp is on the inside of the part connected to the adjustable headband.
  • BINDI: the datamatrix code is on the back of the lamp.
  • SWIFT RL: the datamatrix code is inside the lamp. Just remove the battery.
  • NAO RL: the datamatrix code is printed on the rear plate.
  • NAO, NAO + and MYO: lift the adjustable headband where it is in contact with your forehead; the date stamp is engraved under it.
  • DUO: unscrew the gray bezel around the lamp counter-clockwise; the date stamp is between the LED and the halogen bulb.
  • ULTRA: disconnect the lamp from the headband mount; the date stamp is behind the lamp body, on the articulated plate.


To find the date stamp on Petzl rechargeable batteries:
For the CORE, SWIFT RL, R1 and ACCU 2 batteries, the datamatrix code is on the battery itself. For others, such as older NAO generations, the battery must be opened to find the code.

dateur ACCU NAO PLUS_LD.jpg
Ascender questions

What's the difference between the right- and left-handed versions of the ASCENSION handled ascender?

 

To optimise the ergonomics of the ASCENSION ascender, Petzl developed two models: one for left-handed users, another for right-handed users.

The operating principle is identical for the right- and left-handed models.

If the notched cam can be worked with the right thumb, it's a right-handed model. If it can be worked with the left thumb, it's a left-handed model.

There are no specific rules for choosing between the two ascenders; it's up to each user to decide which feels best. Some users prefer using a left-handed ASCENSION for rope climbing, others prefer a right-handed model. 

Carabiner questions

Is it possible to engrave a carabiner? And how can I identify a metallic product when its serial number is no longer decipherable?

All carabiners have an individual identification number. It is the user's responsibility to ensure the traceability of all his or her PPE (Personal Protection Equipment).

In certain hostile environments, the laser-engraved marking may wear out or become difficult to read. In that case, users can refer to the engraved number on the body of the carabiner, if there is any. They can also add identification themselves:
  • It is possible to use an electric engraving pen (depth of less than 0.1 mm) to engrave the number on the frame, next to the serial number. Warning: stamp lettering (typewriter-like steel punch letters) is strictly forbidden, as is any machining of the product.
  • You can also identify your metal equipment with a small amount of paint (paint pen or metal writing paint). Warning: do not dip your equipment in paint. Apply a small, thin marking of paint - not too thick. As we cannot test every available paint, we recommend that you use metal-compatible paint.

Remember that you must not mark any "working areas", and that marks must be made on a part of the body where there is no rubbing against another device or rope. The marks must not hide the various original markings (serial number, standards, etc.) and must be discreet.
 

What do the Pat letters engraved on connectors mean?

Pat. is an abbreviation of Patented.
If a product model is patented, the abbreviation must appear on the product. 

 

How to choose a carabiner

We have a guide to selecting carabiners based of features, shape and locking system.

https://www.petzl.com/US/en/Sport/Carabiners-And-Quickdraws/How-to-choose

Belay device and descender questions

May the GRIGRI, GRIGRI+ or NEOX be used for rope access work?

The GRIGRI, GRIGRI + and NEOX are belay devices for rock climbing. They are not designed for rope access work.

Petzl offers a range of devices designed for rope access work and certified to the appropriate standards: in particular the I'D S and RIG

 

What is the weight limit for belaying with GRIGRI, GRIGRI + and NEOX ?

GRIGRI, GRIGRI + and NEOX are PPE designed for belaying or lowering a maximum of one person. There is no weight limit specified in the EN 15151 standard for the use of a belay/rappel device. 

 

Can I use the SHUNT to self-belay?

No, the SHUNT is not authorised for self-belaying, for many reasons, including but not limited to, the risk of the cam jamming in an overhang situation.

For more information on self-belaying, go to: https://www.petzl.com/US/en/Sport/General-principles-for-solo-climbing-with-a-fixed-belay-rope?ActivityName=Rock-climbing
 
The SHUNT will be removed from the Petzl range during 2026.
Helmet questions

Can I drill into my helmet to install a headlamp or specific mounting plate?

On the BOREO helmet (pre-2023 version), the only mount we authorise is the caving helmet mount.

Can I mount a camera, like a GoPro, on my helmet?

Glue used for mounts could alter the technical performance of the helmet. Additionally, an object mounted on the helmet could significantly modify how the helmet absorbs an impact or a fall. Mounting a camera, such as a GoPro, on a helmet is therefore not authorised.  

 

Can I put stickers on my helmet?

Petzl only authorises the use of water-based stickers. Any other types of glue used for stickers could alter the technical performance of the helmet. 

 

Can I use my helmet for other recreational activities like biking, paragliding, kayaking, or horseback riding?

Helmets should meet the standards related to each activity, recreational or professional. Only use the helmet for the activity that it is designed for.


Reference the field of application in the Instructions for Use attached to the helmet or online at Petzl.com. 

 

I’m hesitating between two different sizes. Which one should I choose?

Petzl recommends that you measure the circumference of your head in order to determine the size that fits you the best. Do not use a helmet if you are unable to adjust it to fit properly. Replace it with a different size or helmet model.

 

Can I change or wash the internal foam?

All comfort foam can be removed and washed. They are also available through select retailers as a spare part or accessory.

Oops, your search did not match any FAQs