The DMM Sidewinder Locksafe is a captive eye swivel connector combining a directional connector with an integral swivel in a single device. Essential in applications requiring spin management, load rotation relative to the anchor, or minimising lanyard tangles, the Sidewinder is widely used as a connector on guided fall arresters where captive connection, user rotation, and quick secure engagement are all required. Locksafe triple-action auto-locking gate. Titanium/Green finish. Part code A98K71.
Key Features
- Captive Eye for Permanent Connection — Textile-friendly attachment holes allow the connector to be stitched into rope or webbing loops, or swaged directly onto cable; the connector cannot be removed or misaligned once installed
- Integral Swivel — Manages spin and allows load rotation relative to the anchor; reduces lanyard tangling in use
- Aggressive Loading Groove — Forces the load into the correct orientation for predictable loading direction
- Taperlock Keylock Nose — DMM’s patented Taperlock closing mechanism increases gate push-in and cross-gate strength via a flared nose profile; snag-free connection for ropes, slings, and devices
- Locksafe Triple-Action Gate — Auto-locking gate requiring three distinct actions to open; remains locked unless deliberately operated
- EN 362:2004 T Certified
- Made in Wales, United Kingdom
Technical Specifications
- Product Code: A98K71
- Gate Type: Locksafe (auto-locking, 3-action)
- Dimensions: 70 × 205mm
- Weight: 235g
- MBS (Major Axis): 25 kN
- Gate Opening: 20mm
- Certification: EN 362:2004 T
- Finish: Titanium/Green
- UPC: 5031290201650
- Country of Origin: Wales, United Kingdom
DMM Gate Type Guide
- Screwgate — Manual locking; requires screwing/unscrewing the barrel to lock/unlock
- Kwiklock — Auto-locking; two distinct actions to open
- Locksafe — Auto-locking; three distinct actions to open
- Durolock — Auto-locking; four distinct operations to open; force must be maintained throughout or the gate returns to locked
- Kwiklock ANSI — Same gate action as Kwiklock; additionally exceeds 16 kN in minor axis, side load, and gate face tests
- Locksafe ANSI — Same gate action as Locksafe; additionally exceeds 16 kN in minor axis, side load, and gate face tests
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a captive eye connector and when should I use one?
A captive eye connector has a fixed attachment hole rather than an openable gate on the anchor end, meaning it can be permanently integrated into a system by stitching it into a rope or webbing loop, or swaging it onto cable. This ensures the connector cannot be accidentally removed, misaligned, or loaded in the wrong direction. It is the correct choice when a permanent or semi-permanent connection with predictable load direction is required — such as on guided fall arresters or integrated anchor systems.
What does the integral swivel do and why does it matter?
The swivel allows the connector body to rotate freely relative to its anchor connection point. This is critical in systems where the load or user can rotate — such as rope access, arborist descent, or fall arrester applications — because it prevents the connector and lanyard from twisting under load, which can compromise gate alignment, increase wear, and create tangling hazards.
What is Taperlock and how does it differ from a standard keylock nose?
Standard keylock noses eliminate the hook-style notch found on older carabiners to prevent snagging on ropes and equipment. DMM’s Taperlock goes further: the nose uses a special flared profile that increases both gate push-in strength and cross-gate strength compared to a standard keylock, while still providing snag-free performance. It is a purely mechanical design with no moving parts.
Is there an ANSI-rated version of the Sidewinder Locksafe?
Yes — the Sidewinder Locksafe ANSI (A98K71ANSI) uses the same Locksafe triple-action gate but is additionally tested and certified to ANSI/ASSE Z359.12-2019 and CAN/CSA Z259.12-16, exceeding 16 kN in minor axis, side load, and gate face tests. The ANSI version weighs 259g and has a slightly smaller 15mm gate opening compared to the standard 20mm. Contact us if you need the ANSI version.