CMC CLUTCH™ BY HARKEN INDUSTRIAL™ Descender

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Introducing the all-new CLUTCH, the latest evolution in rescue and rope access hardware that enables the technical rope professional to do more with less. This multi-purpose device was designed and engineered in collaboration by two companies with a collective 90 year history in rope management under heavy loads: CMC, a company with roots in rescue and rope access, and Harken Industrial, a manufacturing company with roots in high performance sailing.

Suited to a multitude of rigging operations, the CLUTCH delivers efficient operation, ease of use, and optimal control. It moves seamlessly between anchor-based systems and personal use, offering unmatched versatility for the rope technician. With the CLUTCH, more is possible.


  • Single wearable tool for efficient hauling, controlled lowering, smooth personal descent, easy ascending, belaying, and Twin Tension Rope Systems.
  • Delivers up to 38% higher efficiency in hauling and ascending than a cam-style device: reducing changeovers.
  • Moves seamlessly between anchor-based systems and personal use: reducing gear cache volume and weight.
  • Combines the key features of personal descenders and load management devices: reducing equipment training and cost.
  • Instantly transitions between hauling and lowering or ascent and descent without having to transfer the load.
  • Allows main and belay lines to be mirrored, twin-tensioned, or nested in Double CLUTCH technique (handles controlled by single operator).
  • Replaces 8 pieces of traditional equipment: pulley, rescue rack, anchor plate, load release strap, prusik cord, and 3 carabiners.
  • The 11 mm CLUTCH and CMC’s G11 Lifeline can be used together to build NFPA G-Rated systems using 11mm rope, saving space and reducing weight.
  • The 11 mm CLUTCH is compatible with 10.5 – 11 mm rope and certified to NFPA 1983 General Use, ANSI, and EN standards. It’s the only device for 10.5 – 11 mm rope that carries all these certifications.
  • The 13 mm CLUTCH is compatible with 12.5 – 13 mm rope and certified to NFPA 1983 General Use and ANSI standards.
  • Patented. Made in the USA.

 

  • Stainless steel ratcheting and rotating sheave provides efficient and audible auto-locking progress capture.
  • Rope loading/unloading is secured with an innovative double-latched side plate that is independent of the device‘s attachment point.
  • Anti-Panic brake and force limiting features ensure operational safety and overload protection.
  • Machined aluminum chassis clad with stainless steel wear guards ensures light weight and durability.
  • Integrated becket allows for the direct connection of mechanical advantage components.
  • Control handle has large sweet spot for smooth, progressive lowering and descent control.
  • Included screw can be installed in the side plate to create closed rope systems for rapid deployment.
  • 11 mm Gray CLUTCH:
    • NFPA 1983 (2017 ED)
      • GENERAL USE (G) MBS 40kN (8,992 Ibf) PULLEY
      • GENERAL USE (G), DESCENT CONTROL, ø 10.5 – 11 mm
      • GENERAL USE (G), BELAY DEVICE, ø 10.5 – 11 mm
    • ANSI/ASSE
      • Z359.4-2013
    • CE
      • EN 12841: 2006/C
      • EN 341: 2011/2A
      • EN 15151-1: 2012/8
  • 13 mm Red CLUTCH:
    • NFPA 1983 (2017 ED)
      • GENERAL USE (G) MBS 40kN (8,992 Ibf) PULLEY
      • GENERAL USE (G), DESCENT CONTROL, ø 12.5 – 13 mm
      • GENERAL USE (G), BELAY DEVICE, ø 12.5 – 13 mm
    • ANSI/ASSE
      • Z359.4-2013
Please note that due to high demand, the Clutch may be backordered