Black Diamond recalls Pieps DSP avalanche transceivers

Black Diamond has issued a voluntary recall of some Pieps DSP avalanche transceivers in North America. In a release put out this week, BD stated that the locking mechanism on the transceivers can inadvertently switch the beacons from “transmit” to “off” or “receive” without users’ knowledge—a potentially fatal flaw if the switch occurs during an avalanche burial.

The affected models of the beacon are the DSP Pro, DSP Pro Ice, and DSP Sport avalanche transceivers with neoprene carrying case, sold from January 2013 through November 2020, according to Black Diamond’s official recall page. The beacons were sold at Liberty Mountain, REI, and other specialty outdoor stores nationwide, as well as online at backcountry.com from for between $300 and $450.

“Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled avalanche transceivers and register for a free replacement hardcase carrying system, and user guide to be used with the recalled transceivers at this link,” BD wrote.

Black Diamond stated that it has received “63 reports of the transceiver modes switching unexpectedly while in use.” The malfunctions have resulted in one death in British Columbia.

The Pieps DPS is the same beacon model that came under fire last year after rumors from users started swirling about possible malfunctions—a situation that eventually led to widespread consumer demand for a recall. Black Diamond pushed back, saying that rounds of testing were not conclusive enough to pull the product from shelves, as SKI magazine reported in October.

In an Instagram post announcing the recall, Black Diamond wrote, “We sincerely apologize for the time it has taken to get here and we thank you for your patience as we worked with PIEPS to find the best possible solution.”