Sqwurel V5

The Sqwurel V5 is the fifth-generation evolution of BG Gear's signature adjustable-friction rappel device, purpose-built for canyoneers who want precise, responsive control from start to finish. Version 5 represents a thorough rework of the friction system, with every tail hole updated to perform better across the full spectrum of modern ropes and body weights.

Friction Tuned for Modern Ropes and Real Body Weights

BG Gear redesigned the friction curve from the ground up. The low end is dialed in for lighter users without sacrificing the smooth progression that makes this device so intuitive to operate. Heavier users — testers around 220 lbs found they no longer needed the Behemoth tab during normal descents — benefit from additional friction at the upper end. This is made possible in part by a new V-slot shape in Tail Hole 3, which lets friction increase as the rope is seated deeper into the narrowing slot. Near the opening the slot is slightly wider and friction runs a touch lower; pull the rope deeper and friction climbs. It's a small but immediately useful range of adjustment built directly into the geometry of the device.

Adjust On the Fly — Without Stopping

The defining feature of the Sqwurel is its tail: a system that lets you change friction settings quickly at any point in a rappel, without unweighting the rope or coming off rappel entirely. In practice this opens up techniques that other devices can't easily support:

• Dial up maximum friction to safely downclimb an awkward start, then reduce it once you're clear and descending cleanly
• Shift friction levels on the fly when transitioning across ledges
• Drop friction temporarily to move through a horizontal section or pothole traverse, then dial back up
• Make incremental adjustments on long rappels as conditions change — wet rope, fatigue, varying pitch
• Fine-tune while lowering gear or assisting a less experienced partner

All tail holes feature improved rope retention in V5, and the rapid wrenches have been consolidated into Tail Hole 3 for faster access when you need them most.

Specifications

• Material: 7075-T6 Aluminum
• Weight: 3.86 oz / 110g
• Dimensions: 5.872 × 3.268 × 0.375 in / 149.14 × 83 × 9.53mm
• Rope diameter (single): 6mm–9mm
• Rope diameter (double): 6mm–8mm
• Patent: US 9636526