The keeper/gate of the snap hook should be positioned so that it is never load bearing.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Depends on the hook
• D. Only during testing

Answer: (A)

The load path should go through the strongest part of the hook, not through the keeper or gate. The keeper and gate are the weaker components; if they bear the load, they can deform or fail, causing the hook to open or detach. By orienting the snap hook so the load is carried by the spine of the carabiner and not by the gate/keeper, you reduce the risk of accidental release or gate failure. In practice, you clip and load the gear in a direction that makes the gate away from the primary force, so the keeper/gate never ends up carrying the load.