An O-shaped carabiner is another term for an oval carabiner, which has a symmetrical, oval-shaped body. The name"O-shaped"comes from the fact that the carabiner resembles the letter"O"in shape.

O-shaped carabiners are commonly used in a variety of outdoor activities, including rock climbing, mountaineering, and caving. They are often preferred for applications where a large gate opening is not necessary, but a wide, symmetrical basket is required to accommodate a range of gear configurations.

Like other types of carabiners, O-shaped carabiners are available in both locking and non-locking versions, and come in a range of sizes, materials, and strengths. When selecting an O-shaped carabiner, it's important to consider factors such as the intended use, the weight of the climber and equipment, and the strength of the carabiner.

One advantage of O-shaped carabiners is that they can be rotated along the major axis, allowing for even wear on the carabiner and reducing the risk of cross-loading. However, it's still important to inspect your O-shaped carabiners regularly for signs of wear or damage, and to retire them immediately if they show any signs of weakness.