Technical ice axe Awesome multi purpose ice axe/tool hybrid. Read More An Ice axe is not only a climbing aid, it is an essential piece of mountain safety equipment in the event of a fall because digging the - Entirely modular head allows the technical aspects of the ice axe to be adjusted - Interchangeable with ICE, PUR'ICE, DRY, and PUR'DRY picks to adapt to different terrain objectives (snow, ice, or mixed) - Adze and hammer are interchangeable - Possible to add weights to improve anchoring qualities Sep 29, 2013 · An ice tool is a specialized axe that is designed to climb steep to vertical ice and mixed terrain. The heavier picks make each swing have more momentum to cut into harder ice. Mar 6, 2025 · Vertex - DMM's lightest ever technical axe . Few items of outdoor gear are as personal as an ice axe. 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. Reduced shaft section, ideal for the user with small hands. Secures ice axes while climbing: - designed for technical ice climbing - two arms allow the connection of two ice axes, preventing their loss in case the climber releases them while climbing; Ergonomics: - the arms are very elastic in order to easily accompany the movements of the climber - swivel keeps the two arms from tangling by Michael Powers, IFMGA AAI Senior Guide & Director for Staff Development. Its balance and its ICE pick allow solid placements on any type of ice. In Europe, the most common certification for ice axes is based on the EN 13089 standard, which classifies ice axes into two categories: Type 1 (technical ice axes) and Type 2 (mountaineering ice axes). Very versatile, it will follow the most demanding alpinist in his/her adventures. This is a B-rated/Type 1 axe that would make a great first ice axe for someone venturing into their first winter adventures. Axes for slopes that have a grade of 60 degrees or higher are called “ice tools,” and have aggressively curved handles and a reverse curve pick. The ‘alpine curve’ pick is more pronounced to give better hold when daggering or swinging into hard snow. The hammer version weighs 506 grams (17. We have all the brands: Petzl, Grivel, Cassin, CAMP and others. Full Specifications Lengths: 58cm, 66cm, 74cm / B-rated / 4 colours: black, pink, blue, green / steel head and aluminium shaft / adjustable leash with a rubber tip / plastic blade cover. These axes will also usually come with leashes, however these are not recommended for general mountaineering. Its modular construction allows climbers to customize the pick, hammer, and adze for specific objectives. I personally sometimes like to take my walking axe and then have a shorter technical tool at easy reach for these. Feb 4, 2019 · This ice axe has stolen the last slot of our Top Three standings, and anyone can see why. A technical ice tool, on the other hand, is used exclusively for ascending steep, technical ice. The Akila is Feb 16, 2018 · Technical ice axe designed for ice climbing and technical mountaineering. The sharp angle of the handle is ideal for prolonged hanging and increases power when pulling. This miniature, like all others, embodies our craftsmanship and love. It was designed for climbing long technical routes in remote areas or breaking time records on alpine classics. In addition, many of these tools are equipped with interchangeable blades, allowing for versatile use on both ice and mixed terrain, and integrate hammers or shovels to facilitate progression on technical terrain. One piece hot forge shaft/head; Hot Forged tapered pick; Ergonomic twin shot moulded handle At Grade II a second axe is often handy but this depends on the route, conditions, and climber. Ice axe 1 – pick 2 – head 3 – adze 4 – leash 5 – leash stop 6 – shaft with rubber grip 7 – spike. The Akila is the first B/Type 1 ice axe to achieve such high level of technicality in the ultralight category. Crampons: Which One Do You Need For Your Adventure? How To Use Your Ice Axe For Self-Arrest On Steep Terrain; Ice Axe Maintenance: How To Keep Your Gear In Top Condition; Ice Climbing: Tips For Beginners With Ice Axes; 10 Things You Need To Know Before Buying Your First Ice Axe The course will include (1) anatomy of a mountaineering ice axe; (2) ice axe maintenance and safety; (3) how to carry and grasp an ice axe; (4) ascending low angle snow with an ice axe including climbing in balance, rest step and step-kicking; (5) making a direct ascent using the cane position, stake position, horizontal position; (6) making a Emergency technical ice axes, or for the first approaches to the piolet traction. The head is usually narrower and the pick is curved, making it easier to stick in small holds. Ergonomic, easy to manipulate ice axes that allow multiple grips and have very high anchoring qualities in ice. The TRIGREST and GRIPREST handrests make it easy to handle and comfortable in many different situations. See full list on outdoorgearlab. We recommend this ice axe for beginners looking to tackle technical ascents. It applies to the QUARK, NOMIC and ERGONOMIC ice axes. These are curved tools used in a pair so you can climb vertical and steep terrain. Jan 22, 2025 · There’s only one manufacturer still making ice axes right here in the UK, and that’s DMM. Additionally (and I didn't know this until I saw one that confused me) - you can have a technical axe with the blade and the shaft rated separately. Perfectly balanced and equipped with weights, it provides an exceptional swing. The ice axe is perfectly structured to provide not only solid axe usability, but also more versatile uses as well. Jul 20, 2018 · QUARK is a versatile ice axe designed for technical mountaineering and for ice climbing. It combines the advantages of both: curved shaft for large clearance useful in technical terrain and traditional spike that penetrates the snow easily when climbing snow slopes. Apr 21, 2025 · The product that started our brand is an incredibly detailed miniature of a technical tool for ice climbing. Shop for technical ice axes from leading brands including Black Diamond, Grivel and Petzl from our collection below 5 days ago · From glacier travel to ski mountaineering and climbing technical ice. Dec 25, 2024 · A mountaineering axe is a more technical version of a walking axe. Nov 25, 2020 · Mountaineering ice axes typically range from 60 to 75 centimeters, while technical ice axes are shorter, ranging from 50 to 60 centimeters. Apr 18, 2018 · Carbon, Kevlar, and craftsmanship produce incredibly light yet robust tools, Elite Climb’s Salamandra ice axes. Unlike the heavy-duty “no mountain can defeat me” axe that we just looked at, this is one that’s meant for gentler slopes. Jan 12, 2023 · An axe designed for technical climbing is meant for scaling frozen waterfalls, icefalls, and ice-covered rock slabs. The design and weight of it make it an easy-to-use technical ice axe. New to the lineup this season is the Vertex, an axe that fits neatly between the aggressive mid-to-high grade Apex and the toned-down walking-to-mountaineering Spire Tech. g. Regular price Sale price Jan 3, 2018 · A technical ice axe designed for mountaineering. Its adze provides a wide enough blade to quickly clear snow to place your ice screw. Perhaps not quite as technical as some other tools in this review (although just as, if not more aggressive), but of course DMM do a more radical tool called the Switch (check it Jan 3, 2019 · Ice axes have a CE rating of B (Basic) or T (Technical). ASPEED fits the UIAA Box and can be recommended for official ice-climbing tournaments. They can only become lighter, stronger and better balanced and it will be interesting to see where DMM take their axe design next. Every ounce counts in high-end alpinism and ice climbing. AAI requires a hammered ice tool such as the Quark, but also a hybrid axe measuring between 50-59cm such as a Petzl Sum'Tec, Petzl Summit Evo (a bit less of a hybrid I guess), or the BD Venom. The Tech Machine is ready to climb on ice. Technical ice tools are typically the same length, measuring 50cm. </p><p>We stock leading climbing brands such as Petzl, Edelrid, DMM, Black Diamond, Climbing Technology and Grivel. The Vario system allows the choice of various blade Quick overview: Ice axes are a vital tool for hikers venturing into Australia's alpine regions, providing safety and navigation in snow and ice conditions. Mar 2, 2014 · Cassin/CAMP took all the features of their Alpax ice axe and dropped 50 grams to create the X-Light. TECHNICAL ICE AES 005000 030423 5 EN This general information document on Petzl technical ice axes is inseparable from the specific Instructions for Use for each ice axe. However, technical climbers tackling steep ice or mixed terrain might prefer a hybrid or technical ice axe with a curved shaft for greater precision. Made out of carbon fiber, Molecule Alpine Ice Axe is one of the lightest technical ice axes you can get. It is the ideal tool for climbers/skiers who want to climb faster and lighter with a very technical and robust ice axe. We stock a wide range of ice axes and tools that can be used for all types of adventures, whether you're mountaineering, mixed-climbing, ice climbing or winter hiking. 6oz). Mountaineers prefer a slightly shorter ice axe, because it is slightly easier to use on steep terrain. You need an axe that fits you. 72-1. The tool has an open pick angle and ergonomic handle to make ice climbing easy. is a non-technical ice axe ideal for trekking, classic snow climbs, rental programs, Grivel ice axe X Monster X Monster is a technical tool designed for ice climbing, dry-tooling, for those who love to go beyon Highly technical: - ice axe with steel head offering the same performance as a classic ice axe - pick tapered to 3 mm at the end for good penetration in ice - curved shaft and machined grip for good handling; Very lightweight: only 250 g; Compact: with only 45 cm and a beveled spike, the axe can be stowed inside the pack: Technical Ice Climbing Ice Axes At the other end of the spectrum, technical ice climbing axes are shorter, more curved, and often come in pairs (one for each hand). They feature a curved shaft, a rubber grip or hand rest, and a reverse-curve pick. The ERGONOMIC ice axe is designed for steep ice and dry tooling. An ultralight and technical ice axe for high-alpine skiing, officially approved for ski mountaineering competitions. Offset two-component handle for maximum comfort. 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. High-quality ice axes are not just support tools, but real allies during ice climbing and the most challenging traverses. Technical Mountaineering Ice Axes. It's also central Jul 9, 2024 · Technical Ice Axes/Tools Overview. Its balance and ICE pick allow solid placements on a variety of types of ice. This version features a minimalist adze to keep the weight down but is sufficient for cleaning holds. Performance models for difficult snow, ice and mixed climbs. A basic rating, denoted by a capital B with a circle around it means that the axe meets specific CE and UIAA norms for strength and durability, suitable for a buried snow anchor or self-arrest. The shaft is also usually shorter than a general purpose ice axe, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. Climbs ice better than expected, and performs great as a ice tool. Oct 2, 2020 · If you are getting into more technical terrain with more ice, you will probably look to get a more aggressive head to ensure you penetrate and get a good hook in the ice. It really is beautiful. In my situation, it's likely I'll buy two tools and carry the ice axe as well. It's completely modular, so you can optimize the configuration according to the objective. A. Oct 16, 2024 · Black Diamond's Hydra Ice Tool is a true modular system that can be configured to match any mission, from pure ice to technical alpine, to mixed comp climbing. Ice axes used in technical ice climbing have shorter, curved shafts to provide more clearance when driving the pick into ice or hard snow. Winter Grade III tends to be a 2 tool job, but not necessarily super technical axes like those used for dry tooling. The shape of its chromoly steel ergonomic head is studied for optimal anchoring regardless of the surface to forge ahead. If I was mounting one of these axes on a wall this would The ice axe adze is used to chop footholds or trenches in snow or ice. This features the new 'dual density' grip that can be adjusted so that it will feel at home in any hand. This is a very solid feeling axe helped by the ex Ice axes (also called a piolet) and tools can be used on level to low-angle ice, as well as on steep, technical ice routes. Best Overall: Petzl Glacier; Best Budget Ice Axe: Black Diamond Raven; Best Ski Mountaineering Ice Axe: Petzl Summit Evo; Best Mountaineering Ice Axe: Black Diamond Venom; Best Thru-Hiking Ice Axe: Camp Corsa From Cwm Idwal to classic alpine ice climbs in Chamonix a more technical axe is a necessity. This is a fantastic ice axe, a real progression for DMM and is a super technical tool that is suited for hard mixed and big mountains too. There is a much wider range of technical axes than basic ice axes to help climber’s pick the best ice axe for the terrain they plan on climbing. The double handle offers multiple grip modes and stable hand switching. We bounced every possible selection off OutdoorGearLab staff, our friends, and over a dozen guides who specialize in alpine guiding and mountaineering. They are used for steeper terrains and harder ice chipping. These axes tend to be shorter 48cm-53cm in order Jan 31, 2013 · T axes are heavier and much stronger. Credit: Ian Nicholson The problem with a model that works better in flatter or lower angle terrain is it is too long in steeper terrain as it raises the climber's center of balance and makes it less useful for increasing stability. The distinct curved shaft clears obstacles whilst presenting the pick at an optimum angle for stable placements. Nov 19, 2019 · Use high-performance tools for difficult snow, ice, and mixed routes. Jan 17, 2024 · Best Mountaineering Axe: Petzl Summit Evo Ice Axe; Best Value Technical Ice Tool: Trango Raptor Ice Axe; Best Value Mountaineering Axe: Grivel G1 Ice Axe Technical ice axes and tools are designed for climbing mixed, ice and even dry-tooling. Occupying a distinct and very useful intermediate niche, this is the lightest Type 2 technical axe that DMM have ever made, their Technical ice axe designed for ice climbing and technical mountaineering. The Technical ice axes are made of durable materials and have a high strength rating. Its PUR’ICE pick allows efficient placement in a variety of types of ice. DMM Rebel 2009 Technical Ice Axe 游戏图片 坚固帅气的登山镐，用于军事基地后山和森林后山的撤离，必须与登山绳一起使用哦！ - Grooves cut into the shaft provide superior grip for technical ice climbing - Designed to help prevent dropping the ice axe, the LINKIN leash is removable and can be adjusted from 50 to 75 cm in length; High-quality anchoring: - Steel pick tapered to 3 mm at the tip for high-quality anchoring - Stainless steel spike easily penetrates hard Aug 16, 2018 · #759,905 in Sports & Outdoors (See Top 100 in Sports & Outdoors) #41 in Mountaineering & Ice Climbing Ice Axes #113,463 in Camping & Hiking Equipment Date First Available August 16, 2018 A mountaineering ice axe provides useful support when walking. Ergonomic, easy to swing ice axes allow you to grab the handle in different ways and set your pick with confidence on vertical terrain. Designed for classic mountaineering, the SUMMIT ice axe offers an excellent balance between price and performance. Brands like Petzl and Black Diamond are favorites among climbers. Walking Axes: These are used singley and are primarily for support on steeper ground where they can be plunged into the snow. There are two main types: the all-round axe for beginners and the steep ice axe for experts. This review is part of our ice axes gear guide, and was first published in the February 2018 issue of The Great Outdoors. At first glance the array of ice axes on display in a climbing shop may seem bewildering, but there are actually only three types of axe: these are: Walking Axes, Alpine Axes and Technical Axes. Ice Axe Overview. The average ice tool is shit for walking on a glacier, self-belaying on steep snow, building anchors, etc. They're designed for vertical ice and mixed climbing, where precision and the ability to anchor into ice efficiently are really important for not falling. Main features: an ergonomic head made of hot-forged steel, designed for a better grip and it is equipped with a adze; Mar 10, 2022 · Type 1 are standard walking and mountaineering axes, while Type 2 models for technical climbing are subjected to more rigorous testing of the pick and head, designed to simulate the higher forces exerted when mixed climbing (torqueing etc). The Technical ice axes are designed for use in steep, snow-covered terrain, high level glacial routes, and ice falls. Mar 20, 2019 · The Petzl Sum'Tec is a true hybrid of a traditional ice axe and an ice tool. These axes tend to be shorter 48cm-53cm in order KAILAS Falcon Technical Ice Axe is tailored for mountaineering, technical climbing, ice climbing and other climbing activities. Multi-purpose technical ice axe, suitable for the most demanding alpinists. In the second part of this two-part review, we look at equipment suitable for harder winter climbing and Alpine routes. As AA Grapsas commented, it also depends on the type of climbing. On a technically oriented alpine climb involving a good amount of snow and ice climbing, do you bring two technical ice axes or just one technical axe and one long mountaineers axe? Hello all. They will cope with technical climbs and be much more durable. The North Machine is a technical ice axe designed for high-level mountaineering, north faces and ice climbing. LIGHTWEIGHT: Weighing in at only 280 grams, it's light enough for longer treks and climbs and you can add weights (sold separately) to improve the anchoring The Grivel Air Tech Evolution (often shortened to Grivel Evo) is a former Editors' Choice winner, and it remains an excellent all-around axe. Icefalls, north faces and goulottes are all ideal terrain for this ice axe. The ice axe is a must-have. Technical ice tools therefore come with range of different extras: a real spike, a small metallic spur with a notch, or nothing at all. Jun 21, 2024 · Technical ice axes are used for steep snow and ice climbing. The diagrams use the QUARK as an example, but are valid for all three ice axes. 5 mm for easy penetration into the hardest ice. The shaft on these axes will be shorter and typically come only in one length. A real 'go anywhere' tool. It's the brainchild of the late Uli Steck (with influence from Kilian Journet and Colin Haley, and others) who wanted a lighter less technical ice tool that could perform the basic functionalities of an ice axe, without giving up a pick that offers a high level of technical performance. Measured from the tip of the axe to the top of the head, ice axe size is important. Technical ice axes are designed for steeper, more difficult terrain where precision is key. These axes are fully curved with pronounced pick angles with protective lower hand rests. Consider the type of terrain you’ll be encountering and choose an ice axe length that allows for secure self-arrest techniques and efficient ice climbing. The Summit Evo is the most technical and aesthetically the most attractive ice axe reviewed. They provide more efficient handle grip for difficult sections. Feb 2, 2021 · In the market for a new ice axe, or pair of technical tools? Will Harris chooses size models for six different mountain activities – here are his picks… For ski touring… PETZL RIDE £80 The joy of ski touring is in efficiently travelling through the winter environment, reaching a summit or col to then enjoy the descent that follows. Technical ice axes generally have curved shafts and stronger, slightly heavier picks with more aggressive teeth. The ice axe and crampons are essential. Technical Ice Axes & Ice Tools. The shape and double handle offer multiple grip modes, as well as stable hand switching. They come in many shapes and sizes, and they are, for the most part, very specialized tools. The Tech Machine is strong, with a T tested shaft and blade, and light weight. The NOMIC ice axe sets the standard for ice climbing. - Entirely modular head allows the technical aspects of the ice axe to be adjusted - Interchangeable with ICE, PUR'ICE, DRY, and PUR'DRY picks to adapt to different terrain objectives (snow, ice, or mixed) - Adze and hammer are interchangeable - Possible to add weights to improve anchoring qualities The pick is tapered at the tip down to 3. Filling an intermediate niche between DMM's existing ice axes, the Vertex is technically capable on lower grade climbs, yet not too souped-up for walking terrain. Modular ice axe for technical mountaineering The SUM’TEC ice axe is extremely versatile: it adapts easily to different mountaineering activities, from classic to technical. Designed for extreme ice climbing and dry tooling, this aggressive technical ice axe has a G-bone carbon composite shaft and full carbon handle that ensure lightness and, at the same time, extreme toughness and durability. The TRIGREST handrest (adjustable without tools) and t Apr 10, 2021 · Entheos II Technical Ice Axe Award: ISPO Award Winner of the Asian Products, Asia Outdoor Industry Award Silver Winner Description: The world's only technical ice axe entirely made using CNC technology, with CNC providing great accuracy and stability. Very light at only 495 grams, their geometry offers a higher balance point, that allows a much better swing. When selecting a mountaineering axe, it’s important to consider exactly what you’re planning on using it for. Dec 8, 2022 · The Dark Machine is an aggressive and technical axe geared towards the pure ice climber. Feb 12, 2024 · This traditional ice axe has amazing quality for its great price, which is a good $30 lower than the average ice axe and the reason we have ranked it the best budget ice axe. 8m): 60-70cm >6'0" (>1. It features an ergonomic stainless steel head and a light alloy curved handle both with differentiated finish. Technical ice tools are specialized equipment designed to handle steep, vertical, or overhanging ice and mixed rock-and-ice routes. Dec 28, 2006 · The most exciting thing for me is what the development of hot forged ice axes means for the future of ice tools. Activities: Ice climbing / Dry The Petzl Gully is an ultra-light ice axe for technical mountaineering and steep skiing. $70. 8m): 60-70cm; Too short is generally better than too long. While the primary use of a basic ice axe is for self-arrest and walking up a snowy slope, a technical axe is primary built for climbing. The Best Ice Axes For Technical Climbing In 2023; Ice Axe Vs. ASPEED by default is supplied with a dry-tooling pick. Classic ice axe for glacier travel, couloirs, technical ski touring and ridges with mixed climbing. Question: From the December 2005 edition of AAI's E-newsletter. Curved G bone shaft with great performance on steep ice and cauliflower. They are also suitable for dry-tooling, but only on well protected routes. Great on rock or ice, the DRY pick allows inverted positions and the weights make it easier to slot the pick into Below you will find brief information for Technical ice axes. - Weight (ice climbing pick installed Mountaineering ice axes are used for general mountaineering and winter hiking, whilst technical tools are used in pairs and have curves for steeper more vertical climbing. Its aluminum shaft promises extreme lightness and solidity. They can be used to prevent slips and falls, maintain balance on slippery slopes, create a path by cutting steps in snow, probe for hidden hazards, aid in technical ice climbing, and construct emergency shelters. The Akila is quite short (49cm), ultralight (330g) and compact to be easily stored inside a backpack. The steel head and banana-shaped pick allows for efficient penetration and easy unhooking. 95. Multi-purpose technical ice axe for couloirs, classics slopes, north faces and ridges with mixed climbing. Climb to new heights with the help of our top-rated ice axes. QUARK is a versatile ice axe designed for technical mountaineering and ice climbing. Its tapered banana-shaped pick and the TRIGREST handrest (adjustable without a tool) ensure the performance required on technical sections. Dan Bailey is smitten by this versatile, modular lightweight. The ideal sizing will depend on personal preference and the type of axe you’re using. Great on rock or ice, the DRY pick allows inverted positions and the weights make it easier to slot the pick into Dec 30, 2024 · Ice climbing needs the right gear. Its titanium head is as light as aluminum but as solid as steel. The myriad functions of a mountaineering axe make it darn useful to have along on almost any adventure. The spike on a technical ice tool is used much less than one on a basic ice axe. The Hummingbird is available in two lengths: 4 Classic ice axe for glacier travel, couloirs, technical ski touring and ridges with mixed climbing. Feb 12, 2022 · Winter and Alpine Hardware Review – Part 2: Technical Ice Tools and Crampons. The handle is all carbon, while the shaft is aluminum wrapped in carbon. Mar 20, 2024 · KAILAS Falcon Technical Ice Axe is tailored for mountaineering, technical climbing, ice climbing and other climbing activities. Ice axes for technical climbing, glacier travel or skimountaineering Of all the tools a mountaineer carries, the ice axe is perhaps the most iconic. Technical ice axe for ice climbing with interchangeable head. MORPHO – technical axe The tool of the future! Weights just 390g ideal for ice, mixt and drytooling. . Regular price $209. For straightforward alpine climbs, a basic mountaineering axe works great. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced mountaineer, we’ve got just what you need to take your skills to the next level. Ice axes from classic mountaineering, technical mountaineering, ice climbing and drytooling and ice axes from hiking on glaciers and ski mountaineering. Their small size, curved shaft and pick make technical ice tools unfit for more basic use. The Vario system allows the ch Ice axes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, designed either as climbing tools or as protection on steep ground in the snow and ice. The possibility to fully modulate the tool with various accessories gives it a unique versatility within its category. It comes with a cord made of jewelry textile, the color of which you can choose to your liking. Apr 17, 2025 · Technical Ice Axes. Highly technical: - Ice axe with steel head offering the same performance as a classic ice axe - Pick tapered to 3 mm at the end for good penetration in ice - Curved shaft and machined grip for good handling Compact: with only 45 cm and a beveled spike, the axe can be stowed inside the pack: - Reduces the risk of injury when the axe is attached The Nepal S. Jan 22, 2025 · Best ice axes for 2025: Technical tools for winter hikers, tested and rated An essential piece of winter kit for staying safe in the mountains (and looking like a proper mountaineer while you’re at it), here’s what you need to know about buying an ice axe. Ultra-light at only 280 g, the GULLY ice axe is designed for technical mountaineering and steep skiing. What length ice axe should I choose? Ice axe length is measured from the top of the head to the tip of the spike. ” (Photo/Bergen Tjossem) A pair of Venom LT Techs opens up a wide AVAILABLE FROM 1 st QUARTER 2025. Nov 2, 2023 · These additions move the Venom LT Tech much farther to the technical side of the ice axe/ice tool spectrum, hence “tech. From more technical models that blur the lines of what could be used for even water ice climbing to Ultralite models for alpine rock, ski-mountaineering, or spring backpacking trips on the PCT. Oct 21, 2024 · Ideally, you want an ice axe, that is comfortable to handle but durable to do its job in whatever terrain that you find yourself in. May 15, 2024 · The material of the ice axe, typically steel or aluminum, is crucial to consider; steel offers more durability and biting efficiency, while aluminum is more lightweight, ideal for less technical adventures. It features a streamlined, high-strength carbon fiber shaft and a parametric ergonomic grip handle with a honeycomb porous lattice structure crafted by Selective Laser Sintering(SLS) 3D printing technology. This lightweight yet powerful ice axe provides an improved May 25, 2022 · Technical Ice Axes/Ice Tools. Molecule Alpine Ice Axe. Climbing axes are T rated, which means they are stronger than B rated axes and suitable for hard usage on rock and ice and for use as belays. It will prove itself wherever the low weight of the equipment plays a key role. - Entirely modular head allows the technical aspects of the ice axe to be adjusted - Interchangeable with ICE, PUR'ICE, DRY, and PUR'DRY picks to adapt to different terrain objectives (snow, ice, or mixed) - Adze and hammer are interchangeable - Possible to add weights to improve anchoring qualities - high-quality steel pick (identical to picks of technical ice axes) - very strong steel adze with with an edge designed for efficient cutting of steps - head and spike equipped with holes for clipping a carabiner or attaching a sling - high-quality aluminum shaft (aluminum 7075, used in aeronautics), with anodized finish for excellent rust Compromise between classical ice axe and modern technical tool. It has a good combination of being lightweight and good performance for people who do multiple disciplines in the mountains. As such, it’s ideal for snowy couloirs or steep slopes. XLA 210 The Salewa Alpine-Tec Hammer axe is a lightweight, hybrid ice axe for general to more technical mountaineering in steeper environments. Dec 11, 2019 · Short ice axes are also nice for alpine rock climbs where you have to carry your ice axe on your pack. Mar 16, 2025 · Alex Roddie reviews the best ice axes, an essential tool for managing risk in snowy mountains, with additional testing from David Lintern and Lucy Wallace. It is slightly more curved and shorter than our straight shaft Alpine-X axe and comes with a sharp, aggressive 3 mm blade and a minimalist handrest that From Cwm Idwal to classic alpine ice climbs in Chamonix a more technical axe is a necessity. Walkers will carry a single ice axe, but as the ground blurs between mountaineering and technical climbing, a pair of tools comprising an adze and a hammer becomes the norm. Designed by Jedrzej Jabłoński – one of the best drytool and mix climber – to be top of the class with outstanding efficiency, the most ergonomic shape, long reach with precision and high stiffness of shaft. The TRIGREST and GRIPREST handrests make it easy to handle and comfortable in any situation. I figure this will make learning to ice climb easier, and I already have the axe, so buying a more technical one now but eventually wanting a second tool seems like it will cost me more in the long run. Aside from that, they look similar and the same styles and shapes are available. Hybrid ice axes are more aggressive than a traditional mountaineering axe, yet less technical than an ice tool. Ice axes of all types and brands in our online store. I'm climbing Kautz with Alpine Ascents in June and wanted some advice on ice tools. The picks for ice-climbing are available on request. The Apex ice axe with adze combines DMM's ergonomic design with high-quality engineering for an exceptionally strong, dependable climbing aid crafted to tackle a wide variety of terrain. The Black Diamond Raven is a simple design with a long pick that bites into snow and ice as well as a wide grip area, making it comfortable to carry and more secure in the The Petzl Quark is a versatile ice axe designed for technical ice climbing and challenging mixed terrain. Oct 30, 2020 · The carbon steel material will withstand more impact and wear than most other ice axes and the pick itself, which is more curved than competing models, may dig deeper into ice chunks for added stability. Certification: EN-13089. 72m): 50-60cm; 5'8"-6'0" (1. Jul 27, 2017 · HIGHLY TECHNICAL: The GULLY ice axe is designed for technical mountaineering and steep skiing. Lightweight and with a waterjet-formed tube, it offers a very comfortable grip under the head of the axe. The ergonomic design, aggressive pick angles, and specialized features of these tools provide climbers with the security and efficiency needed for challenging ascents. A perfect choice for the scrambler who wants a more climbing oriented axe, an alpinist looking for a tool to get across glaciers, snow, neve, and alpine ice, or the jack of all trades axe that can do it all. ice climbing or mixed climbing) conditions. Jun 14, 2019 · SMC Kobah Pro: The newest axe in this review and likely one of the least well known is SMC’s Kobah Pro. Its casted hammer offers a fitting surface to hit pitons in all terrains. 8oz) and the adze is a touch lighter at 500 grams (17. This distance About the DMM Apex Compact Ice Tool. Technical crampons have front points that penetrate hard ice with ease and offer incredible stability when climbing mixed routes. You can view Winter and Alpine Hardware Review – Part 1: Classic Ice Axes and Crampons by Ice axe certifications ensure that the equipment meets safety and performance standards required for various mountaineering activities. Alpine routes and glacier walks which involve both snow and ice may require longer and straighter axes and snow pickets, while steep ice climbing routes require more aggressive, technical axes and snow saws. Saturday 12th February 2022; By Bruce Goodlad. SIZE. com Technical Mountaineering Ice Axes. Ice axes for technical routes will have aggressive bends and be heavier than a general mountaineering axe, for better ease of swinging into ice. We have climbing tools (with some great pair deals) as well as axes designed for mountaineering, winter walking and for ski touring. The technical design of the curved shaft provides the necessary clearance on steep, icy terrain. The Pro is part of a new Kobah line of alpine and mountaineering axes introduced by SMC last summer (2018) that includes the Kobah Speed Ice Axe (small & light option), the Kobah Ice Axe (traditional mountaineering axe) and of course the Kobah Pro which we’re reviewing. It is lightweight and offers good anchoring performance of both the head and the spike; it is curved to offer necessary clearance for steep ice; it can be used in piolet-canne or piolet-rampe mode as well as in piolet-traction mode on short, steep sections. Black Diamond's technical ice tool made for climbing frozen waterfalls all day long. An ice axe can be dug in and used as an anchor point for belaying or rappelling and the shaft can be used to probe unstable snow. Interchangeable blades with Vario System. Each season, gear Ultralight at just 230g (50cm), the Hummingbird ice axe is ideal for technical mountaineering, high-alpine skiing or competitive ski mountaineering. Ice axes spike. Petzl says Ultra-light at only 280 g, the GULLY ice axe is… Multi-purpose technical ice axe, suitable for the most demanding alpinists. Jan 29, 2021 · Another big difference between a regular ice axe and a technical ice axe is its strength rating. Founded in 1981, DMM turns out some of the most highly regarded climbing hardware in the industry, which includes a selection of ice axes that range from highly technical ice tools to hill-friendly walking axes. It’s extremely lightweight thanks to the G-bone carbon composite shaft and full carbon handle. Feb 21, 2023 · Here's another to add to the collection - and while it's early days, I'm already a big fan. An ice axe is a multi-purpose hiking and climbing tool used by mountaineers in both the ascent and descent of routes that involve snow or ice covered (e. The head is Jan 14, 2017 · A rough guide to ice axe length is: <5'8" (<1. I’ve learned that the right tools are key for safety and success. Adze, hammer or both? An adze is a cutting edge found on the head of the axe, positioned perpendicular to the handle, and is typically used for digging and cutting steps in Highly technical: - ice axe with steel head offering the same performance as a classic ice axe - pick tapered to 3 mm at the end for good penetration in ice - curved shaft and machined grip for good handling; Very lightweight: only 250 g; Compact: with only 45 cm and a beveled spike, the axe can be stowed inside the pack: Feb 16, 2015 · If you want a technical, leashless axe for alpine, hard Scottish mixed or steep ice climbing, then The Tech Machine is axe to choose. The performance of this tool is situated between classical ice axe and modern technical tool. Designed for classic mountaineering, the SUMMIT EVO ice axe is the tool of choice for all types of alpine trips. Most walking axes are B rated. Axes less than 60cm are generally for technical ice climbing and are best used for very steep or vertical slopes. The picks are recurved to make it easier to remove the tip from such substrates, and have teeth along their full length. 00 CAMP. ALPIN TOUR Robust general walking axe with hardened steel cataphoresis black head and tapered anodized light alloy shaft. lygfmrckqtmhgfuboipjjadvsihsxqkyiepyqrpofzxvnbl