That's a very good point. The post seemed to skip all the juicy actual security bits, but made sure to explain thoroughly how good the rucksack was, how everything fit into it nicely, and how it was waterproof.
Or simple "gear whoring". Working in lucrative tech can allow for expensive toys, and the personality type of a tech pro as a tool maker/builder crosses over to other hobbies/interests. See also http://www.militarymorons.com/ which I believe is primarily self funded.
The BD ATC is perhaps the most popular belay/rappel device around, even if everyone who read this article went out and bought one it probably wouldn't affect their overall sales much.
Now I wonder if I just read a cool blog post with product placement.