The idea behind a daisy chain is that when you get to an anchor (for multi-pitching or cleaning a toprope) you can clip directly in to the bolts at an adjustable length. This will vary based on your belay stance, the setup of the anchor, the freedom of movement you need, whether there are other people there or not, etc. The important thing to remember is that when shortening a daisy chain, clip only to the loop closer to your harness, not to both that and the end. Any serious climber should have a daisy chain (or 2) and these are a great option. If you feel like forking out some extra cash, the Dynex version is just as strong, but smaller and lighter. And better looking. Your call.**Though some free climbers do use daisy chains for the above mentioned purpose, they are really meant to be used in aid climbing for a leader to hang from the topmost anchor placement while placing the next peice. As mentioned above it is real important to remeber not to clip into one of the tacked loops and the end loop (if the tacks pull your biner will fall right out). If this doesn't quite make sense it's suggested that you take a regular sling or loop of something and use masking tape to simulate bar tacks in a daisy chain. Clip in like you would in the real daisy chain and pull to make sure that (in the event of a failure) you would still be clipped in.

In my opinion it's about 1000 times better. The plate like structure on the old reverso tends to be a little abrasive to ropes (especially static lines). The Reverso3 somehow manages to have more friction and yet still be smoother and more manageable and a lot softer on ropes (also seems to dissipate heat much more effectively). The quick-release loop for belaying off an anchor is another huge improvement and works really well. Also, compared to my ATC-Guide the reverso is a much smoother belay device.