Abstract: A descender comprises a base plate (20) having a point of connection (24A) to a harness and a pivoting plate (22) mounted pivotally on the base plate (20) about an axis with the pivoting plate (22) having two spaced rotating pulleys (25 and 26) for engaging a rope (39). The base plate (20) has a rotating stationary pulley (27) mounted thereon to provide opposition to rotating pulleys (25 and 26) which are mounted on the pivoting plate (22). A control handle (23) with a cam surface (41) presses against the pivoting plate (22) which increases the space between rotating pulleys (25 and 26) on the pivoting plate (22) and the stationary pulley (27) that is secured to the base plate (20), thereby relieving the clamping effect. A speed regulator (34) stops the control handle (23) from full travel, allowing less than maximum rate of descent. A door plate (21) protects the internal parts when secured closed.