Which of the following is a retirement factor for aluminum carabiners?

• A. Scoring
• B. Bending
• C. Corrosion
• D. 5 years

Answer: (A)

Scoring is a retirement factor because marks and gouges on the aluminum carabiner indicate material has been worn away by friction and contact. Those grooves reveal loss of material in critical areas where loads are carried, which can reduce strength and create a higher risk of failure when the carabiner is loaded. Because scoring directly shows material loss and potential weakness, it’s a clear trigger to retire the piece of gear.

While bending or corrosion are also concerns that can lead to retirement, scoring specifically signals visible wear that compromises integrity. A fixed time like five years isn’t a reliable safety measure, since wear depends on use and conditions rather than just age.