Belay techniques

Question
I have come across many people that have extreamly diffrent methods of belaying, and each swears that theirs is the most correct way (any thing from belay technique to the way the belay device is connected to your harness).

I connect a tube style device to my belay loop and and pull, pinch (from below the device, not above), and slide.  I feel that my technique is correct, or is it?  This is the way I was taught so it is my preffered.  So IS there a single correct way to belay, or are there just several acceptable methods?

Thanks,

Adam

Answer
Adam,
I'm a bit unclear about your description, by tube device do you mean an a metal square with a wire that attached to your harness?   As far as pulling from the top or the botton, it may depend on whether you are belaying a leader or follower.

I have used many belay methods over the years from body belays to 'tubes" to stitch plates, I have also seen people belaying in such a way as to be dangerous to their partner.   There is a right and wrong way, I suggest you go to the manufacturers website or look at the instructions on the news devices. Also an alternative is a book, John Long has written some excellent instruction books.   DON'T rely on the people at the local gym! Even the instructors at local gym lack experience in this area.

Much of belaying also depends on directional pull, equalizing anchors and angle of rock.   

Hope this helps

Jeff