Cam Straps and Ratchet Straps are Not the Same
If we had to rank the top five questions we are asked most frequently, "So it's a like ratchet strap?" would be on that list. It may or may not be number one, but it is asked a lot. Interestingly enough, so many people assume cam straps and ratchet straps are the same, but they are not.
Below is a basic explanation of cam straps. We will compare them to ratchet straps so that you get a clear understanding. As you read, remember that not all cam straps are the same. The buckle makes the difference, and our patented Rollercam buckle is among the best in the business.
Cam Straps or Cam Buckles
Manufacturers talk about both cam straps and cam buckles. The most important part of both terms is 'cam.' The word designates how the buckle actually works. As for the strap portion, a webbing strap is a webbing strap for the purposes of determining the difference between cam straps and ratchet straps. While there are some variations in material type as well as strength and displacement under testing, the buckle is the critical piece.
That said, cam straps are, at their core, tie-downs for securing cargo to trucks, trailers, etc. — or securing anything, really. They can also be used to tie down tents, tarps, or anything else you would typically secure with rope or bungee cords. What truly sets the cam strap apart is the cam buckle.
A cam buckle is the piece of hardware through which the webbing strap is threaded and stays secure. The strap is held tight by a spring-loaded cam that applies pressure to the webbing so it cannot slip. What makes Rollercam cam buckles unique is the roller that sits underneath the webbing strap.
This roller allows for nearly frictionless movement as you pull the strap tight. The strap rolls through the buckle rather than being dragged across a stationary plate. This reduces friction and allows you to pull the strap tighter without applying nearly as much force.
Releasing a Cam Strap
Tightening down a cam strap is as easy as pulling on it until it is as tight as you need it to be. The release is just as easy. A typical cam buckle has a small plate you push to release the cam. The lock plate releases pressure on the roller, and you pull the strap out. It is quick, easy, and effortless.
With Rollercam, our ergonomic thumb release plate makes adding slack or releasing the strap accessible and convenient.
Comparisons to a Ratchet Straps
For comparison purposes, a ratchet strap is a tiedown that utilizes a ratchet buckle to keep the strap secure. You thread the strap through the ratchet and pull it to take up the initial slack. Then you engage a ratchet to tighten the strap in small sections at a time. The more times you ratchet, the tighter the strap gets. This takes time and eliminates the ability to control how tight a strap gets around your gear.
The ratchet strap also utilizes a spring-loaded cam to bite down on the strap and secure it. As for release, it works the same way. You push a small plate to release the cam and pull the strap out.
Appropriate Cam Strap Uses
The choice between a ratchet and cam strap usually boils down to working load limits. A flatbed trucker hauling a heavy load on his trailer will secure it with 2" or 3" ratchet straps capable of handling heavier loads. For everything else, Rollercam straps are the way to go.
We recommend cam straps for overlanders, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone for all cargo securement needs. They are ideal for securing cargo to the top of your rig, securing coolers in the back of a truck, and securing your winter firewood pile. Really, the possibilities are endless.
