Locking carabiners, which have a locking mechanism that prevents the gate from opening, are used for everything from connecting the climber or rope to the anchor to constructing safety and rescue systems. Most experienced climbers have a minimum of 3 aluminum "lockers" on them at any given time--one for the belay device, one (or two) to clip in to the main anchor, and one extra for emergencies.
Lockers come in two basic shapes, the Oval and the D. Ovals boast few benefits aside from offering more space to rack a set of chocks and less load shifting, and so are uncommon these days. Most lockers (and non-lockers) are a symmetrical or asymmetrical variation of the D shape, which is stronger because it concentrates the load on the spine.
Climbers can also choose from screw gate lockers and spring-loaded lockers, which snap into a locked position.
What to Look for
Get to know the various types of lockers and identify which ones are most suitable for the type of climbing you will be doing. People who spend a lot of time toproping should get numerous large lockers, while alpine climbers will want to get the lightest lockers available. It's a good idea to take a lesson from a professional to ensure you understand the dos and don'ts of loading a carabiner.
As a general rule of thumb, choose large lockers to operate along with your belay device, to set up top rope anchors, to set up rescue systems, or to be used as the main point when building a traditional climbing anchor during a multipitch climb. Larger lockers offer more room for handling and are easier to manage if more than one thing needs to be clipped to the same locker. Smaller lockers, which are lighter, work well for clipping in to anchors or for those unplanned times when you need an extra locker.
Common Pitfalls
Ice climbers should be wary of the spring-loaded lockers because they are harder to manipulate with gloved hands. And be sure not to lock screw gates either too tightly (they can become stuck) or while they are weighted (because then they will need to be weighted to be unlocked).
Take care of your lockers by occasionally lubing them with White Lightening Lube or (less recommended) WD-40. Also get into the habit of locking them as soon as you clip into something. Finally, be sure to continue to check both your screw gate and spring-loaded lockers while using them. Often, while belaying a screw-gate will unscrew, and spring-loaded lockers often get stuck as they age.
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