Metolius Alpine Curve Hex's are incredibly lightweight (extruded 6061-T6) and about 1/5 the price of quality camming units. By curving the faces, Metolius has opened up a lot of placement options by allowing them to slide past nubbins and irregularities that would block a traditional hex. The gentle curves also allow them to cam into position by rotating on the convex face and setting up a triangulation with the concave side. They seat into their placements with tenacious holding power. Beginners will love the bargain prices as they build their first trad rack. The more experienced respect weight savings in the bigger sizes AND their relative inexpense.