The Bandolier is both an alternative and a supplement to the conventional harness racking system. Some climbers use them exclusively, while others mix and match, racking gear on both the harness gear loops and the Bandolier.

If you think about it, there are some distinct advantages; on constricted crack or groove pitches the rack can be swept out of the way, allowing you to continue squirming upwards without the hassle of snagging.

It allows for quick change-overs if you are swinging leads on a multi-pitch route. It also can be jettisoned in an emergency – for example if you are swept into the sea by a rogue wave while traversing the base of a sea cliff