There are so many options available in terms of belay devices these days. In this podcast I talk through the advantages and disadvantages of using guide mode when trad climbing. As with any piece of climbing equipment you should be familar with it before heading out on to the crag to use it and this podcast is not a subsitute for real expereince or being taught by an expert. This type of belay plate can also be used to climb up a rope - I've not gone into this in the podcast, I have focused on belaying.