Totem Cams

Totem Cam

The Totem Cam uses a patented Direct Loading system that distributes force equally across all four lobes. This gives the Totem Cam holding power in flared, irregular, and shallow placements where consistent lobe contact is difficult to achieve. The narrow head width on smaller sizes adds placement options in tight or awkward crack systems.

Totem Cams work by friction between the cam lobes and the rock face. As load is applied, the lobes rotate outward and press harder against the crack walls, holding the placement in place. The patented Direct Loading system distributes that force equally across all four lobes, which improves holding power in irregular or flared placements.

Two-lobe loading is not suitable for fall protection. Per Totem's instructions, two-lobe placements can help support body weight in some aid climbing situations only. For fall protection, all four lobes must contact the rock. Three-lobe placements offer more security than two-lobe placements. Per Totem's instructions, if the lobes being loaded are well placed and the outer lobe of the remaining two contacts the rock, the placement is secure.

Totem Cam sizes are labeled by approximate crack width in inches at 33% of expansion range. Measure the crack at its narrowest point and match it to the size whose range covers that width. Each cam should be placed with lobes working at less than 50% of their expansion range. Do not use a Totem Cam with lobes near fully open, as any rope movement can shift the placement and cause it to fail.

Retire a Totem Cam immediately if loading wire ropes are kinked or frayed, the axle or stem is bent, cam lobes are damaged from a fall, or the plastic at the sling attachment point is cracked and the inner wire rope is visible. Replace the sling if it is frayed, melted, torn, or older than 5 years. Replace trigger wire ropes if kinked or frayed. Metal components have no age-based retirement limit.