| Name: | Midwest Mountaineering Oval |
| Category: | non-locking |
| Shape: | oval |
| Material: | aluminum |
| Profile: | round |
| Nose: | notch & pin |
| Nose Guard: | none |
| Rivets: | pin: proud |
| Gate Shield: | none |
| Weight: | 61.5 g |
| Dimensions: | Length: 105.14 mm Width: 51.58 mm Depth (basket end): 11.02 mm Gate Opening: 15.1 mm |
| Other Markings: | Stamped: MIDWEST MOUNTAINEERING |
| Collection Criteria: | ★ Historically Interesting or Iconic |
| Summary: | classic oval from a classic retailer |
| Description & Commentary: | This carabiner is an Eiger Mountain Sports model, branded "Midwest Mountaineering" for the famous outdoor equipment retailer (closed in 2023). In response to request for information, Midwest Mountaineering owner and founder Rod Johnson graciously shared a bit of history on these carabiners. In the early 1970's, Rod climbed in Yosemite every May and October and would regularly stop by Eiger Mountaineering Sports when in California. Rod thought they probably ordered these carabiner in quantities of 100. "They were good carabiners at a low price," he shared. The carabiner itself is a basic oval, without a protruding nose - a feature touted to help "catch" the eye of a pin (piton), although it also improved strength:weight, helped see carabiner orientation at a glance and avoid partially opening the gate if the carabiner contacted the rock. The oval shape is slightly pointed at the ends, with Type 1 / Type A grooved pins used for the latch and hinge. |