The Munter Hitch

Good info from Andy Kirkpatrick at psychovertical on how to tie a Munter hitch; another way to tie it here. Key thing to remember is that, opposite to a tube style belay device, you have to move the belay strand parallel to the load strand to lock off (brake hand UP). You can also use it in a Munter-Mule combo to escape the belay. I've actually used it before at the top of a pitch when I've dropped my belay device, with only the faintest memory of how to tie it (sorry B!). Good info to keep in your arsenal.