Ice axe test. Did Camp/Chouinard make the Bill Sumner REI model? Blue composite shaft with a t-bird pick profile. Read about this perfume in other languages: Deutsch Follow me on Instagram @radishuprooted Want to get into mountaineering, winter backpacking, or thru hike the Pacific Crest Trail or Continental Divide Trail? Then you’ll need to know how to use Oct 30, 2020 · BEST FOR: CLASSIC MOUNTAINEERING The lightweight Summit Evo Ice axe is a versatile, strong tool that can dig into the roughest of surfaces. Tailored to meet the demands of climbers and skiers navigating various alpine terrains like glaciers, couloirs, and ski descents. Maxon C4D-Substance Painter. Sei es auf einer Skitour oder auf … Dec 25, 2024 · The ice axe is an essential tool in the winter mountains, and this guide will help you with choosing between the many different types. - Ice Axe - Test model. It won't knock your socks off, but does provide respectable all-around performance and is ideal for simple to moderate glacier routes or basic snow climbs. It is the only non-modular axe we tested to achieve a CEN-T rating, and it's strong and rock-solid throughout. Ice axes are an essential safety tool for travelling through winter mountains. Jun 14, 2019 · Last year I wrote an article comparing different lightweight mountaineering axes. Everything about it is designed to excel in complex terrain; it can be fitted with any of Black Diamond's ice tool picks and comes with a sweet adjustable 1 day ago · Looking for reliable ice axes for your mountaineering adventures? Explore our top 15 picks to stay safe and prepared while climbing the toughest peaks. Its balance and its ICE pick allow solid placements on any type of ice. Available as both an adze and hammer, the Ghost Evo is slightly heavier at 309g—but in reality both axes are incredibly light for how well they perform and it is the Feb 17, 2025 · Ice axes 18th February 2025 Salewa Alpine-X review : out of 5 The lightweight axe with aggressive pick has some downsides when it comes to climbing and self-arrest. Jan 3, 2018 · Read our review of the Petzl Summit Evo, a technical ice axe designed for hillwalking and classic mountaineering. Nov 29, 2023 · Although well documented in other sporting populations, there seems to be limited reporting of intersection syndrome in the climbing population. Piolet d’alpinisme traditionnel, le Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe with Grip est doté d’un nouveau grip bi-densité sur la partie inférieure du manche et de notre dragonne actualisée Slider Leash pour plus de sécurité et de polyvalence. The next step is learning ho Jan 28, 2019 · The Grivel Air Tech Evolution (often shortened to Grivel Evo) is a former Editors' Choice winner, and it remains an excellent all-around axe. It's perfect for those breaking into the sport or who may be on a tight budget but Dec 11, 2019 · The Black Diamond Swift is built with challenging glacier routes and steep snow climbs in mind. These versatile implements provide stability, balance, and safety in challenging conditions. The Reactor Ice Tool is the new technical ice axe from Black Diamond, designed for ice climbing and steep mixed climbing. Petzl's 280g axe is a very popular choice amongst ski mountaineers and anyone else who travels fast and light in the mountains. Mar 16, 2025 · Our expert gear testing team gets to the point reviewing the best ice axes, an essential tool for managing risk in snowy mountains. Jan 28, 2022 · Over the last 10 years, we've tested over 21 of the best ice axes on the market. The familiar B and T ratings for axe strength have been superseded by EN Ratings Type 1 and Type 2. CE certification helps you choose the correct ice axe. Mar 21, 2019 · The CAMP Corsa is one of the lightest rated ice axes currently on the market; if weight is your number one priority, look no further. May 15, 2024 · Based on our research and testing, we think the Petzl Summit Evo is the best Ice Axe on the market right now, for anyone looking to play hard outside. How To Use An Ice Axe For Ski Mountaineering? In this informative video, we’ll guide you through the essential techniques for using an ice axe in ski mountaineering. Our technical partners test them in the field to validate product claims. It is one of the most comfortable axes to carry and performs great when self-arresting. Top quality, great selection and expert advice you can trust. Feb 14, 2024 · Here we have focussed on the best ice axes for moderately steep terrain. You can trust Advnture Feb 9, 2024 · Ice Axes Featured Review Head to Head: DMM Cortex vs Black Diamond Hydra Ice Axes Two new axes are turning heads this season - the Black Diamond Hydra and the DMM Cortex. They provide stability, enable you to cut steps in hard snow or test the depth of a snow drift. Technical Axes/Tools As we Mar 22, 2018 · The BCA Shaxe Speed Shovel turns your ice axe into a “what if” addition (along with the medkit, firestarter, extra food, etc…). Dec 20, 2019 · Petzl say: QUARK is a versatile ice axe designed for technical mountaineering and for ice climbing. Its design makes it one of the lightest in our review and one of the lightest weight CEN-B rated axes on the market. Ice axe capable of providing a truly excellent performance. Aug 1, 2018 · Remember the heavy, long shaft ice axes of yesteryear (that probably wouldn’t look out of place on a museum mantelpiece)? A new wave of shiny anodized ice axes are hitting the market faster than you can say the words ‘alpine’, with the latest offering from Salewa that uses hybrid technology combining performance and lightweight construction for mountaineering. The best ice axe will let you successfully carry out your actions on snowy and icy terrains, under conditions where long, sliding falls are possible whether you are ice climbing or mountaineering Dron Plus Dron Plus is a high-performance ice axe from Climbing Technology, which is ideal for experienced mountaineers and ice climbers who want professional equipment for their adventures. Feb 7, 2024 · The first test is an ice axe weighted from mid-shaft being pulled perpendicularly as if it placed as a deadman. It is an ax that ranks first in DPS against lava trees , and is copper against other trees except lava trees. Dec 8, 2022 · A classic straight-shafted axe, the Grivel G-Zero has a plastic head cover that feels extremely comfortable in the hand, making it a great basic hillwalking axe In this video I talk through a few different Petzl Ice axes and how to make better choices when buying your first tool or tools. They looked exciting; but there's only so much you can tell in an exhibition hall, and to really judge an axe you have to climb with it - a lot. Mar 22, 2019 · The Black Diamond Raven Pro is the lighter cousin of the mega-popular Raven. The Petzl Summit Evo is a top-choice ice axe that quickly gains the trust of both seasoned mountaineers and rookie climbers. A choice of picks are available - it comes fitted with the Alpine Vario which is Grivel's best pick for all round use. Mar 21, 2019 · The Petzl Glacier is a fantastic ice axe for an excellent price and was nearly the winner of our OutdoorGearLab Best Buy award. Ice Chill was launched in 2024. Shop crampons, ice axes, ice screws, harnesses, carabiners, ropes, and more essential equipment for your next mountain adventure. The Evolution is designed down to the finest detail and is 100% manufactured in Courmayeur, Italy in the shadow of Mont Blanc with 100% solar energy. Jan 18, 2013 · Ice axes are possibly the piece of climbing gear that have evolved the most over recent times, with ever more curved, contoured and seemingly wacky designs appearing every season. The shape of its chromoly steel ergonomic head is studied for optimal anchoring regardless of the surface. Partially because of the price and partially because of limited distribution, this axe can be hard to find. Although most will cope with steeper general mountaineering routes or low-grade climbs (up to about This leaves the High Quality Pretty Blue Chouinard Ice Axe (did it make up for the "smart remark?"). A CEN-B rated axe has to withstand 2. It takes the same head that is commonly found on most of Petzl's other more traditional ice tools and attaches it to a more a classic, albeit slightly bent ice axe shaft. They provide more efficient handle grip for difficult sections. Feb 16, 2018 · Whether it's for Scottish mixed, Continental ice or drytooling, a pair of technical axes are your key weapons. . Over the years I’ve noticed the trend for mountain guides is to carry shorter Dec 10, 2024 · Overview of Ice Axes For Backpacking When venturing into challenging winter terrains or icy landscapes, having the right equipment is essential for safety and performance. Mine is a "medium length" so it could cross over between Alpine Axe and Ice Tool. Heavy, burly tool. Don't buy an ice axe before reading these reviews. As a result of the large, wide head (presumably to help with comfort while carrying) it was especially easier to “ spin ” for self-belay to self-arrest during our tests. They are light and effective for testing and they provide stability on rough ice and extra thrust for skating upwind when the wind is over 10-15 mph. While some ice axes […] Aug 29, 2024 · Grivel’s Ghost range is well established, in fact we reviewed the Ghost axe back in 2018 as part of a winter running article. Nov 2, 2018 · But an ice axe (and practice, practice, practice) 1) improves your safety, 2) gives you more flexibility in timing (with self-arrest capability, hikers sometimes have to wait for the afternoon when the snow softens up) and 3) it allows you to butt-slide a thousand vertical feet or more on descent. It’s just a basic rundown of features and what to look for if you’re new to In this video, James takes us through the key features of @dmmclimbing81 newest technical Ice Axes, the Cortex. Nov 25, 2020 · Introduction: Ice axes are essential tools for mountaineers, ice climbers, and those venturing into snowy and icy terrains. Understanding the Mar 10, 2022 · Rating The Spire is a Type 1 axe, as per the new two-tier system. In this update, we select 17 of the current market's best to hack away at waterfalls, chop steps, and practice our self-arrest techniques. May 2, 2025 · It is characterized by a granular structure and a relatively low density, making it challenging for ice axes to penetrate. Read more: Chouinard Equipment Blue Composite Shaft Ice Axe w/Curved Pick reviews (2) ThreeDimensions is a political compass test that adds a third axis to the Political Compass. What type of ice axe do you need? Ice Testing Tools 8 foot pole, saw and a couple shorter poles Summary: There are lots of methods for testing ice the following is a short list of what I think are the best choices: Skaters: Nordic Test Poles. It features a well-designed, high-quality hot-forged pick, which is widely regarded as the best construction method an axe could have. Who needs this axe The Raven is not your next ice climbing axe, but works well for glacier travel and moderate angle snow climbs where self arrest is a possibility. An axe designed to suit most out-there mixed, ice and dry tooling routes Jan 22, 2025 · What makes the perfect ice axe? It’s an essential bit of winter mountain kit but choosing one can be tricky. Mar 21, 2019 · The CAMP Corsa Nanotech is a unique ice axe unlike almost any other on the market. The steel blade hot-forged in one-piece makes it light, balanced and solid. Oct 17, 2023 · The Petzl Summit Evo is a perfect ice axe for non-technical hillwalking that will also adapt for steeper or more technical ground on occasion (outside of rope use). In fact, compared to the Raven, the Glacier is lighter, self-arrests smoother, and climbs steep snow better, while the Raven offers a better price tag. Typically, aluminum is used for the shaft of the ice axe or tool and steel is used for the head. Mar 21, 2019 · The Black Diamond Venom is a modular ice axe that is geared towards steep snow climbs, moderate water ice, and complex glacier routes. Redessiné et allégé, le Raven with Grip dispose d’une tête de frappe en acier inoxydable coulé haute précision offrant une meilleure ergonomie et Multipurpose ice axe for couloirs, classic slopes on north faces and ridges with mixed climbing. We love the Nomic for its performance on vertical ice, but our testers found the Hydra to take steep ice climbing to a new level thanks to its incredible modularity, perfect balance, and best-in-class ice penetration. Ice climbing in the south is a rare moment in time. Dec 31, 2018 · The Petzl QUARK is a versatile ice axe designed for technical mountaineering and for ice climbing. When BCA sent us their Shaxe Speed Shovel, I jumped at the opportunity to review it. Nov 15, 2024 · Grivel's entry in the lightweight ice axe category inevitably draws comparison to the Petzl Gully. For routes like Fisher Chimney, Silverhorn, Coleman-Denning, DC it's a great tool for a variety of applications. Axes in this category are effective for climbing steeper sections of ice and hard snow, while still remaining useful on sections of less technical terrain. Feb 12, 2024 · When looking for a climbing axe for your next adventure, be sure to consult our detailed assessment of the best ice axe. Routes where you plan on using one (or more) axes to climb some alpine ice, work through some deep May 18, 2015 · The Grivel G1 is a solid, well-designed ice axe that is made of high-quality materials for a sweet price tag. The range is an ‘all-mountain’ offering, covering everything from mountain walking and glacier work to Alpinism and modern test pieces. The Akila is the first B/Type 1 ice axe to achieve such high level of technicality in the ultralight category. What we look for in ice axes are essential characteristics such as how useful they are for self arresting, walking with, and climbing steeper gradients. Oct 26, 2017 · Searching for best ice axe? See the top-rated snow axes of 2024, pros, cons, features, plus all you need to know about the best options available now! Feb 26, 2007 · The Nepal S. It's an okay option for steeper routes but doesn't perform as well as many of the other ice axes we tested with more aggressive picks and Mar 15, 2019 · We first got to handle Petzl's new top-end ice tools at the ISPO show in January 2018. A. Mar 29, 2025 · Ice Chill by AXE is a Aromatic Green fragrance for men. If you're looking for Mar 21, 2019 · In addition to being a high performing model, the Summit is lighter than most general mountaineering ice axes in our review. The body and pick are hot, drop forged in one piece, then the stamped adze is welded to it. I failed the first time, with weak dimensions and low quality metal Visit our website http://www. The ice axe, or “ice tool” as it’s more commonly called, has come a long way since the alpenstock hit the market in the mid-1800s. Take this 10-minute quiz to better understand your political attitudes and psychology. Feb 7, 2018 · As I bought an ice axe from Russia some 10-15 years ago and cannot remember their ratings, I just wondered if somebody knew (or knew where to find) descriptions of the Russian ice axe test requirements? For example, UIAA B/"Basic" axes can take 250kg sideways shaft/head interface load; UIAA T/"Technical" axes can take 400kg etc. On other days, we may spend hours with one or two axes in use, perhaps climbing steps of ice or rock. 5KN. The Raven Pro, along with the rest of the Raven family, are among the most comfortable ice axes to carry. The standard Ghost has been joined by a hammer version as well as… Apr 11, 2024 · The performance we seek from an ice axe varies widely depending on the day’s objective. However, with a wide range of options available, selecting the right ice axe can be a daunting task. A product review of the Grivel Mont Blanc Nepal SA general mountaineering ice axe, including specs, impressions, and how it performs. I did for fun, the idea would be a weapon that could be in epistle 3. The Glacier remained a standout choice for most general mountaineering applications and was one of the higher Oct 2, 2020 · The Freedom of the Hills is all yours with the proper ice axe to stabilize your footing if you slip, balance you on the descent, and to stop your fall in the event you find yourself needing to self-arrest. Currently, it can only Jan 31, 2022 · Grivel G1 Plus: first impressions The Grivel G1 Plus is perhaps the most classical ice axe we reviewed for our best ice axe buying guide. You can view Winter and Alpine Hardware Review – Part 1: Classic Ice Axes and Crampons by clicking here. It has a great pick and can tackle short, steep terrain better than many other ultralight models. There is a also a choice of axe or hammer version, or the possibility of removing either and inserting a black instead. The carbon-steel head features a classically inclined pick with teeth along half its length. - 3D model by Cassio. The TRIGREST and GRIPREST handrests make it easy to handle and comfortable in any situation. To hold an ice axe on the Ortovox Haute Route there is a small velcro loop at the top near the “X” in Ortovox. Easily held at the handle for strength or just under the pick for control, the Evo’s pick is made thicker in the middle for soft snow and sharp toothed at the tip for thick ice. This ice axe has a robust but lightweight construction, providing excellent performance and reliability in tough conditions. The first sensations holding the axe are surprising if you are accustomed to using an equivalent competitor’s model. P. Its hot-forged head, FlickLock style slider pommel, and curved shaft make it one of the better steep snow performers. The TRIGREST and GRIPREST … A Tale of Two Ice Axes by Bruno Schull This is a tale of two ice axes. I wanted to be prepared! I set out to make my own Ice climbing ice axes. Both these classifications have the same requirement for the shaft strength test, and the shaft of either type of axe is rated for incorporating into an axe belay. I certainly think the minor improvements add up, and make for a better tool that is totally worth the extra cost. What keeps it functional is Nov 15, 2024 · At first glance the Hydra looks like a copy of several popular ice tools, most notably Petzl’s Nomic. May 18, 2015 · The Petzl Snowracer is an excellent ultralight ice axe that excels in ski mountaineering and basic snow climbing terrain. The G Slider hand rest slides Apr 11, 2022 · Accouterment The Ortovox Haute Route has attachments for Ice Axes, Crampons, and helmets, all on the outside of the bag. The Corsa does make some sacrifices in its versatility and some of its performance characteristics, but for the right user or application, this niche axe is a perfect choice. 7 ounces). Since it might make the difference between life or death, you want to make sure you choose the right ice axe for your purposes. Both seem destined to become familiar sights on our winter crags, but which is the one for you? We put them head to head to see how they stack up for UK climbers. Some days, all we need our axe to do is disappear in our pack, perhaps to come out in a steep or firm moment. Anyone know that history? Apr 7, 2021 · Long, moderate, alpine ice tomorrow? A steep snow route the next? The Blue Ice Akila ice axe, available in a hammer or adze version, is an excellent choice for these adventures. It may be worth considering a diagnosis of “ice axe wrist” as a differential in patients who have been using ice axes in climbing or mountaineering. org. Mar 6, 2019 · Twp ice axes, one brand, and almost identical to look at. Fishermen on foot: A spud (ice chisel Feb 12, 2022 · Website DescriptionWinter and Alpine Hardware Review – Part 2: Technical Ice Tools and Crampons Saturday 12th February 2022 By Bruce Goodlad In the second part of this two-part review, we look at equipment suitable for harder winter climbing and Alpine routes. Mar 1, 2024 · Check down below to see the gear used in today's show 👇 High up on an Italian glacier, we bring you the essential guide to selecting the perfect ice axe for your climbing adventures. It features a heavily tapered positive curve steel pick that is designed to excel at climbing steep terrain and penetrating firm snow. Jul 25, 2025 · Contrary to what manufacturers claim about lightweight ice axes, my hands-on testing showed that a solid balance of strength and maneuverability really Oct 11, 2016 · Do you know how to stop yourself sliding on snow by using an ice-axe self-arrest? This is an essential skill when walking and climbing in the winter mountain Feb 17, 2025 · Overall, the Petzl Summit ice axe is a beautiful tool on the technical end of basic mountaineering axes, says Alex Roddie. Feb 18, 2020 · An ice-axe is an essential piece of safety equipment for anyone wanting to walk during winter conditions on the UK’s mountains. Or two cultures, or two climbing styles, or two ways of dealing with danger in the mountains. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the essential factors to consider Jan 18, 2022 · Our pick of the axes on test, the Spire Tech combines low weight with a robust build and impressive performance even on moderately steep terrain. There was a time where the ice axe options were twofold–either a long-shafted heavy mountaineering ice axe, or a shorter straight-shafted technical ice tool. Understanding Ice Axes Ice axes are versatile tools designed for ice climbing, mountaineering, and other alpine Jan 10, 2019 · This review focuses on very lightweight mountaineering axes, the type of axe you'd want for ski mountaineering, approaching alpine rock routes, etc. Mar 5, 2019 · March 5, 2019 David Lottmann Climbing Gear Reviews, Gear Reviews, Ice Climbing ice axes ice climbing petzl petzl nomics Alexandra Roberts takes the new Nomics for an alpine spin up Pinnacle Gully- photo by Brent Doscher The new Petzl Nomic has been refined in a way that makes it one of the most versatile ice axes available. But relax, this list will get you to where you want to be, and get you there safely with the best choices in ice axes for you mountain travels. In this material, you are invited to get acquainted with our impressions of the use Jul 8, 2015 · Price Ice axes are found at every price range and I think that the $80-100 range is fine for something that will last as long as you live. You have to hit an oak 5 times to get it. The Gully is an alpine steep snow and moderate ice specialist that works well as a pair, as a second tool coupled with a traditional mountain axe, or a single for challenging ski mountaineering routes Oct 1, 2021 · Our team of experts has selected the best ice axes out of hundreds of models. Jan 21, 2022 · DMM Spire: first impressions New for winter 2021, the DMM Spire is the brand’s classic straight-shafted mountain axe – something that was previously missing from DMM’s more specialized and technical range of ice tools (such as the DMM Spire Tech, both of which feature in our best ice axe buying guide). This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of T-shaft and straight shaft ice axes in such conditions. Jan 14, 2022 · An ice axe is an important protection device that helps you maintain balance, test terrain, climb snow and ice-covered slopes and even stop yourself from sliding downhill if you fall (known as “self-arrest”). Among the essential tools for any ice climber, the best ice climbing ice axes are crucial for navigating steep ice and mixed terrain with confidence. Best of all, it is aggressively priced compared to most of its modular or higher-performing competition. At the bottom is a large garage and strap to cinch down and hold the axe from falling out. During the 2015 Christmas Event [9] It was an ax that was in the gift box you could buy at Wood Ruth for 14,400. So, in summary: Type 1: Standard walking and alpine mountaineering axes, suitable for ice axe belaying, but not designed for hard modern mixed climbing involving torquing picks etc. M. Feb 4, 2019 · Searching for the best ice axes? Check out the top-rated of 2024, pros, cons, features, plus all you need to know about the best options available now! Dec 11, 2019 · Steep Ice and Snow The Ride provides security in steeper terrain far better than you'd expect from a sub-9 ounce ice axe. The G1 was above average in nearly every one of our comparison categories and is a fantastic option for general mountaineering applications. Progressive axis has all new questions. After few years of loosing ground to its competitors, CAMP has came back to reclaim the prize for the lightest ice axe in the world! The new blue Corsa Race weigh feathery 185 grams at 50cm! It will be in stores later this year. And while a really lightweight axe is great if it’s going to mainly live on your pack, a slightly sturdier tool is ideal for more technical objectives. Questions are a mix of those from the original Political Compass and some originals I think will be good at reaching new nuances on each axis. Main features: an ergonomic head made of hot-forged steel, designed for a better grip and it is equipped with a adze; tapered light alloy handle with an anodized finish, straight at the base for an effective penetration in the ice; new grip that is ergonomic and moulded, with excellent grip and For walking and a first ice axe, probably a straight one like petzl glacier, general sizing other people have mentioned the hand to ankle distance while standing. Find out how to choose the right ice axe for your intended use. Countless revisions over the past 200 years have taken it from being a straight-shafted wooden axe to being an ergonomically Nov 2, 2023 · A versatile mountaineering collection, Black Diamond's Venom LT converts from all-mountain ice axe to piolet and shovel for ski mountaineers and adventurers. more Jul 3, 2025 · Didn't the Rainier rangers have a ice axe test they did for prospective climbers? Where they stopped on the shaft, and, if it broke Bill Sumner? I've always thought the Thunderbird pick design was fairly unique. We put Petzl's lightweight Ride and Gully up against each other. Can we draw cultural conclusions from ice axes? Many aspects of climbing vary in generally recognizable ways from place to place, for example, rating systems, environmental ethics, techniques and so on. The Raven Pro's only real downsides are its adze performance and sub-standard steep snow and ice climbing ability. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top ice axes on the market, including their features and benefits, to help you make an informed decision. Apr 19, 2009 · "Leashless climbing, surely that's a bit risky, what if you drop an axe two pitches up?" "So, when I was offered the opportunity to test Petzl's Nomic ice tools I was more Technical, ultra-light, versatile ice axe is also convertible with interchangeable pick. All our ice axes are lab tested and certified to guarantee their mechanical features. Mar 20, 2019 · Our favorite modular ice axe, the Petzl Sum'Tec, has the shaft of an ice axe with the head of an ice tool, and is built with versatility in mind. This model was our overall favorite until Petzl released the Summit Evo, which has a similar pick and Sep 13, 2024 · The new Black Diamond Hydra has hit the shelves and it’s one of the best ice and mixed climbing axes that we’ve ever used. The Raven Pro has all the same features but is two ounces lighter and a bit more expensive. Mar 19, 2019 · The CAMP Neve is a solid general mountaineering ice axe for a great price. Both seem destined to become familiar sights on winter crags in the coming seasons, but which is the axe for you? We Mar 18, 2024 · No description has been added to this video. Breaking down an Ice Axe Knowing all the parts of an ice axe is a good first step to buying one: The Head: Composed of the pick, a carabiner hole, and an adze (or a hammer). Its traditional looks make it one for the purists. Several other features make it one of the easiest to be used as an Apr 12, 2021 · In This video I talk about some of the features to look for in a ski mountaineering ice axe and some of the pros and cons of a small selection of some off th Dec 19, 2023 · Needing an ice axe to take on Mont Blanc and a load of other peaks I had my eye on, the Grivel G-Zero stood out as a lightweight ice axe explicitly crafted for beginners planning their first ski-touring and mountaineering endeavours. Ice axes are indispensable tools for mountaineers and backpackers, offering support in traversing snowy slopes, assisting in self-arrest techniques, and providing stability on steep or threatening ground. uk or call us on 01479 861256Glenmore Lodge instructor Mark Chaddwick runs through the important winter skill Apr 28, 2025 · Explore the best mountaineering ice axes for different climbing styles, with tips on selecting the right axe for self-arrest, glacier travel, and technical climbs. What this model might lack in versatility, it certainly makes up in its very focused design. The Italian company, known for its ultralight ski mountaineering and climbing gear, has Dec 23, 2015 · The 'T' Rating The T rating has to do with the CE Safety Certification that all ice tools must pass if a company wants to offer an ice tool for sale. With so many options available, choosing the best ice axe can be overwhelming. Learn how to size your ice axe, the parts of an ice axe and key features to consider. Jan 22, 2025 · We test ice axes in the UK's most challenging terrain – the Scottish Cairngorms, English Lake District, and Welsh Snowdonia National Park. Jan 20, 2025 · When the frozen cliffs of winter beckon adventurers to test their mettle, the right gear can make all the difference between a successful ascent and a daunting retreat. Axe length also needs to be factored into the buying decision. Every year kit gets lighter and lighter and gone are the days of almost Alpenstock length axes. The stainless steel spike itself will last through many expeditions while The ice axes in this test are all designed for general-purpose winter or Alpine mountaineering. While it lacks versatility, it's quite functional for what its intended purposes are Jan 3, 2019 · Our guide to ice axes: what to look for, how to pick an axe for walking, and our selection of the best models. While some are made for technical ice climbing, others are best suited to mountaineering trips. There’s no absolute definition of what constitutes winter conditions and it’s not defined by time of year. Its adze provides a wide enough blade to quickly clear snow to place your ice screw. Type 2: Modern leashless tools suitable for ice axe belaying, and also designed for hard modern mixed climbing involving torquing picks etc. Range of winter climbing and mountaineering equipment including the DMM Ice Axe range which offers exceptional performance and withstands the rigors of modern climbing by being ‘bombproof’ - sturdy, strong and dependable. The UKC team looks at high performing ice axes from top brands such as Petzl, DMM, Black Diamond, Grivel and Edelrid. The Capra is named Here is a tool developed for Alpine activities, the Blue Ice Hummingbird ice axe. It also means preserving toughness that instills confidence in an ice axe. In search of an expert to explain what makes the perfect ice axe, we head to the only place in the UK that still makes them: the DMM factory in north Wales. Why not ice axes? The two If you're a prepper, hunter, camper, or just want to know you'll be ready, these are the best survival axes to help you prepare & survive anything. Understanding how to Oct 1, 2018 · The Bottom Line: Overall it's a superb mountaineering tool, and I would highly recommend it for anyone looking for a general mountaineering axe. is a non-technical ice axe ideal for trekking, classic snow climbs, rental programs, and schools. Jan 17, 2024 · Material Ice axes and ice tools are made of multiple materials but primarily aluminum and steel. It is designed for those looking for equipment that is the lightest possible, coupled with assured safety for difficult terrain (or that of another climber). Having the new NOMICS and ERGONOMICS sitting near Performance versatile ice axe for mountaineering, now a "classic" in its category. The G-bone shaft with lateral grooves allows greater resistance with a lower thic Dec 11, 2019 · The Petzl Gully is a unique model that blurs the lines between an ultralight ice axe and an ice tool. This is a new fragrance. Well as winters go, this one has not been the best to test ice axes, with conditions coming and going all season. Jan 13, 2010 · This axe is 100 percent titanium (it will never rust or corrode) and is the lightest axe reviewed that comes with a fully functional spike. In this comparison review seven models go head to head. The Ergal shaft surpasses UIAA norms for strength and durability; it is coated with black, epoxy May 18, 2015 · The Seattle Manufacturing Company (SMC) Capra ice axe is a great value for a fantastic general mountaineering axe. It is also by far the most expensive ice axe we looked at, as much as three times more expensive than the competition. The Retrogressive vs. More technical winter climbing – including ice climbing on frozen waterfalls and glaciers, and mixed climbing on rock and ice – requires a pair of technical ice tools, but we’ll leave those for a future article. This isn’t meant to be a comprehensive review of individual ice axes or technique. 5KN, and a CEN-T has to endure 3. Ice axes aren’t all created equal. Start your journey today! Shop for Ice Axes at REI - Browse our extensive selection of trusted outdoor brands and high-quality recreation gear. Designed and made by our teams at our factory in the Chamonix valley (France), at the foot of the Mont Blanc. Though it is the least expensive ultralight ice axe we tested, it proved itself as good as most other axes in many situations. It comes with a built-in (and removable) leash and offers a competitive price. If you are in the market for some technical tools, this is the review for you. When held or dropped, fire flickers around the axe. Modular alpine ice axe for alpinism and lower grade ice climbing, with "Vario System" interchangeable picks and "G-bone" shaft. EMS Guide Keith gives tips on how to choose an ice axe featuring the Petzl Glacier and Sum'Tec. Most resources for ice axes focus on general mountaineering. What makes the Corsa Nanotech so unique is that it is nearly 100% aluminum, including its head (most ice axes have steel heads), making it insanely light (8. This year I’m comparing their slightly heavier brethren. As everyone starts to gear up for thru hikes and early season snow travel, I thought I’d write an overview on ice axes. Jun 13, 2023 · Die Blue Ice Bluebird Ice Axe ist ein perfekter Begleiter für anspruchsvolleres Gelände im Winter und im Frühjahr. In the alpine training program "Iceclimbing school in Norway 2018" MCS AlexClimb Mountaineering School did some testing of a number of ice tools and iceaxes, the comparative tests of which we will publish a separate article. Some are applicable to hikers, some are not. Enter the Black Diamond Hydra - a highly refined and versatile tool - and the DMM Cortex - a strikingly burly yet lightweight workhorse. Mar 6, 2025 · If you're looking for a fresh set of higher-end technical ice tools, two much-discussed models new this season are bound to turn your head. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Learn how to use an ice axe to hike, chop steps, climb on steep slopes, perform self arrest and create an anchor for belaying. Soares May 1, 2025 · Explore the top ice axes for ice climbing, with expert recommendations on the best tools for performance, safety, and durability. Away from the very wrong side of vertical (and horizontal) routes of the superheroes, the new techniques and designs have cascaded (sorry) down to the new breed of all-round axes, including DMM's new Apex, and a Sep 22, 2020 · CAMP picked up Gold Award at 2020 ISPO for their new Race Corse ice axe. This is an axe that straddles the divide between winter hillwalking and true mountaineering – although do note it is not T-rated. CE (Comité Européen de Normalisation) is a European group that develops and maintains equipment standards. The earliest ancestor of today’s ice axe was the alpenstock—a long wooden pole with an iron spike tip used by shepherds and hunters in the Alps during the Middle Ages. May 2, 2025 · The first limited edition ax other than the tester axe. The three axis model is based off SapplyValues. The result is a lighter than average ice tool that can perform all the duties Feb 17, 2025 · Other than its price, the Black Diamond Raven Pro - a classic ice axe with some welcome updates - has just two minor downsides. Feb 9, 2024 · The new version of Edelrid's most technical axe, the Rage, is well-made, well-designed, and a lot of fun to climb with, says Toby Archer. glenmorelodge. But it also takes advantage of the Italian brand’s long and well-established manufacturing expertise, boasting a one-piece hot-forged head. You could head for the hills on a mild December or January May 15, 2025 · The Historical Evolution of the Ice Axe From Alpenstock to Modern Tool The ice axe has a fascinating evolutionary history that mirrors the development of mountaineering itself. The Akila is quite short (49cm), ultralight (330g) and compact to be easily stored inside a Aug 19, 2020 · Roundup of light minimal to burly multipurpose ski mountaineering ice axes including Blue Ice, Black Diamond, Grivel and Petzl and how to choose. An ice axe is a versatile tool that could save your life in alpine regions, so choosing the right one is crucial. Verizon Gear up for ice and alpine climbing with Black Diamond. CAMP X-Light iceaxe reviewOverview of the X-Light iceaxe of the manufacturer C. yusdgu hhksl jovnnkv hpfm hui bpecto syqglu hydyjrg sapenqj eckrrno
26th Apr 2024