Ice axe vs ice pick.

Ice axe vs ice pick Jan 22, 2025 · What is the difference between an ice pick and an ice axe? Ice picks are smaller and used for breaking or shaping ice, while ice axes are for climbing or trekking. For another variant, see Secret Santa. Its casted hammer offers a fitting surface to hit pitons in all terrains. Now redesigned, the Raven is lighter, and sports an updated investment-cast, stainless steel head ergonomically improved fo We weighed each model's performance in low and mid-dagger positions while ascending thousands of feet of firm snow comparing how effectively and how much energy was required to drive the pick into the snow while gripping the axe on the top of the head as well as under the shaft in mid dagger position. An ice axe has a long, straight shaft and curved pick. SALAMANDRA – alpine/ice axe. The next step is learning ho Ice Axe Accessories. Go practice with them and get a feel for it. If your ice axe is too long on the other hand, it could prove unhelpful for use in self-arrest. The hand grip and spike are at the lower end of the aluminium shaft. Height 50 cm Jun 17, 2020 · Alpinist Tad McCrea has been using the latest model of the Petzl Quark ice tools for the past year. It was also easy to remove, due to its streamline shape. The ice axe and ice hammer are a definite must to have at hand when faced with the ultimate challenge. Read more: Chouinard Equipment Blue Composite Shaft Ice Axe w/Curved Pick reviews (2) Feb 5, 2021 · Looking for advice on how to size an ice axe for walking or mountaineering? Our in-depth guide explains the differences between ice axes and how to select the correct length ice axe for you. 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. S. Dec 11, 2019 · Some axes, especially those with modular picks, will show a rating on both the shaft and their pick. The pick is often curved or slightly angled, enabling effective self-arrest techniques. The mixed pick is an in-between from ice to drytooling picks. This is the part that you’ll swing into the ice in order to gain traction, and it’s what mountaineers will use when they need to self-arrest. From £10. Pick angle or pick geometry varies depending on the technical capabilities of the axe – generally, those intended for steeper terrain have a more aggressively down-turned pick and a greater number of sharper, more serrated teeth. It also functions as a hiking stick to maintain balance. What’s the difference between an ice axe and an ice tool? An ice axe is a multi-purpose tool which can be used for hiking, ascending and descending of routes with snowy or icy conditions. For example, Petzl Sum'Tec has a T-rated shaft and a B-rated pick that results in a B-rated ice axe. The lightest ice axe You can find! Made from hybrid carbon and kevlar composite. This burly ice axe is everything you could want for challenging glacier routes and steep snow climbs: If we could only own one ice axe, this would be it: Built with versatility and steep alpine routes in mind, this model has the shaft of an ice axe with the head of an ice tool: A surprisingly versatile axe considering its impressively low weight. &nbsp;</p><p>We stock leading climbing brands such as Petzl, Edelrid, DMM, Black Diamond, Climbing Technology and Grivel. A requirement for high mountain and glacier travel. There was almost more design and technology going into designing the leash as there was in the ice axes themselves! With its lightweight aluminum handle, steel pick and steel head, this durable tool is perfect for crossing high alpine terrain or recovering a downed satellite module from a Russian airbase. Piton - A metal spike used for mountain climbing Meat Fork - A two-pronged metal fork used for meat. His aluminium-alloy-shaft ice tools were manufactured for the public in the 1960’s, after three An ice axe is used for winter hiking or mountaineering. Jan 12, 2023 · The front side of the ice axe head is called a pick. 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. Nov 15, 2024 · The Hydra also comes with three pick options: ice, mixed, and dry. They are a bit heavier than the regular technical ice axe. This is a B-rated/Type 1 axe that would make a great first ice axe for someone venturing into their first winter adventures. The Akila is quit 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. Although numerous people use the phrase "ice axe" freely to describe both mountaineering and vertical ice/mixed climbing tools, technically they have distinct names; ice tools, not ice axes, are used for technical ice climbing. An adze will allow you to break ice by chopping or shoveling in a specific area, and they also provide more room to hold on to the head than a hammer does. What you want to do here is the drag the pick of the ice axe into the snow at your hip level. Jan 14, 2022 · How long your ice axe should be is partially determined by its usage, and also your height and body proportions. @philip-ak: Once going down a hard slope fast all bets are off, even with an ice axe, although an ice axe would be best. Technical Ice Tools. The axe is used for balance, cutting, probing, extra security, support, digging, as a hand hold and as insurance should things go wrong. 4 ounces for the 50cm length, this is the lightest CEN-B rated ice axe in the world. As of March 16 (averaged between different type of nodes) Stone Pick Axe: (100 Durability) : 26 seconds per node / 1771 Stone per minute, 767 Metal per minute, 238 Sulfur per minute Pick Axe: (400 Durability) : 32 seconds per node / 1875 Stone per minute, 813 Metal per minute, 250 Sulfur per minute Salvaged Ice Pick: (150 Durability) : 24 seconds per node - 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 - TRIGREST QUARK handrest is height adjustable without tools - GRIPREST QUARK handrest folds in easily A number of years ago I switched from a longer axe (older BD Raven) to a short axe (Petzl Summit Evo) and a BD Whippet (trekking pole with an ice axe head). Grivel - G Zero Ice Axe Our modern take on Chouinard's original curved-pick mountain axe, the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on classic climbs the world over for decades. According to the earliest manufacturer of ice picks, Grivel, these two tools were combined to create the first proper ice pick in around 1840. Although i recommend looking for a pick that does well in real ice. Ice axe 1 – pick 2 – head 3 – adze 4 – leash 5 – leash stop 6 – shaft with rubber grip 7 – spike. But, you say, it would be terrible to dig a dead man with a pick. Even people comparing this with the Petzl Glacier Literide will notice that this model has a thinner pick better suited to daggering into the snow and ascending firmer slopes. Depending on the type of axe the pick, adze and hammer will be replaceable or removable. Great for any of you burgeoning alpinists out there that need a quality ice pick with a bit of history behind it… Specifications. The shape of its chromoly steel ergonomic head is studied for optimal anchoring regardless of the surface to forge ahead. Jan 17, 2024 · This refers to the shape of the pick on an ice axe. Unicorn Horn - A stone horn from a statue Ice Pick - A sharp metal spike that can pass frisk checks Icicle - A pointed spike of ice. It is used for arresting falls or cutting steps into hard ice or snow. Ice Axe Hand Rests. Whether you need a more technical piece of equipment or something quite basic, Gearshop has a large range of various axes and accessories that will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable climb whatever the conditions. May 13, 2013 · 50 years ago, all ice axes had straight shafts and the only real differences were the shape of the pick and the overall length. 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 Mar 21, 2019 · While our reviewers appreciate this feature, we must admit that it's pretty rare that we need to be able to clip two carabiners to an ice axe. For ice axes, adze's are (by far) the most common. These ice axes were infinitely more durable than the wooden axes that came before, and were less prone to snap under pressure or if stored at incorrect temperature or humidity. The distinction between ice axes and ice tools lies in their size. Both are too long when collasped and not long enough at full extension and the Stubai has an alloy pick Jan 28, 2015 · Here highlands-based mountaineering and skiing instructor Lou Reynolds looks at an essential winter skill, the art of choosing and walking with an ice axe. Sep 13, 2023 · The pick is the sharp pointed end of the ice axe that penetrates the ice during climbing. The whippet takes the place of the long axe, but is lighter and more useful and comfortable in general. BD Raven, Grivel Airtech, Petzl Summit seem incredibly popular where i am from, but their chunky picks don't really stick in ice. $69. The handle on the Viper is really comfortable with nice rubber shaping, the hand rest is slightly smaller than the previous model but it still works great and can be removed for a more Feb 16, 2018 · The NOMIC ice axe allows the entire rock climbing repertoire to be transferred to ice. Nov 2, 2023 · The long-time straight shafts were curved, the wrist leashes were tossed out, and the picks curved more downward, increasing the humble ice axe’s performance on vertical ice. As with most tools we test, we opted for the ice pick in all but the scrappiest of drytooling scenarios, since the 2. If your ice axe is too short, it could actually pose a risk as the head could end up too close to your vital organs during self-arrest. given its modular design, the ice axe can be adapted to a particular ascent ; especially suitable for demanding technical mountaineering and ice climbing ; bent shaft makes hooking in steep ice or rock easy while creating an optimum grip angle Dec 6, 2016 · For a few years I used both a trekking pole and an ice axe. That was mostly because I would bring the trekking pole around to use as a pole for my Tarp, if I wanted to leave it up for the day and go hunt without it. Nov 21, 2022 · The Venom LT comes in a “classic” layout – straighter pick, no pommel, adze layout, and a “tech” setup with a recurved pick, sliding pommel, and hammer. On August 21, 2012, a man was attacked with an ice pick in Dec 28, 2006 · The placement feedback when ice climbing took some getting used to, having a damper feel to other axes but this quickly became a feature I liked with the axe. Ice tools can be used in place of ice axes by expert climbers in desperate situations. steel crampons How to choose crampons that fit your boots; Ice Tools vs. On technical ice tools, picks and shafts are rated separately. We have climbing tools (with some great pair deals) as well as axes designed for mountaineering, winter walking and for ski touring. 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. While sliding, the additional leverage from a longer shaft can help control pressing the pick into harder surfaces. Pick, adze, hammer, hand rest and leash allow the ice axe to be adapted to the requirements of the terrain. Salamandra is specially designed for ice climbing and long mountain routes. How do I maintain my ice pick? Some tools are closer to a traditional ice axe than others; like a Petzl Quark with the trig/hand rests removed. Jul 2, 2003 · Trekking poles are no substitute for an ice axe when an ice axe is called for, which will depend on the steepness of the slope, the nature of the snow, and the consequence of a slip. The shape of its chromoly steel ergonomic head is studied for optimal anchoring regardless of the surface. Ice Axes & Tools. Feb 11, 2015 · The three big differences between an ice tool and a piolet are a curved shaft, a radically shorter length and a pick with a reverse curve (imagine, well, an upside-down rainbow). Those of you who want slightly more ice focus could look at the Ice pick, which is thinner with a finer profile for increased performance on hard ice. It's because drytooling picks must bend or flex when torqued and not break. The pick, typically made of hardened steel, serves as the pointed metallic end of the ice axe. mixed alpine climbing, it's worth checking 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 Shaft: Made of steel, aluminum, or carbon fiber. May 9, 2023 · The shafts on early ice axes were generally over a meter long, doubling as a comfortable walking stick. The two techniques are completely different and do not even use the same hardware. The shape and double handle offer multiple grip modes, as well as stable hand switching. Ice tools have reverse curve picks, sometimes referred to as negative curves. 0000 - Pure ice. Letter Opener - A blunt knife used to open letters. Shop for Ice Axes and Tools at REI - Browse our extensive selection of trusted outdoor brands and high-quality recreation gear. In 1978, the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation May 29, 2013 · Having a heavier, powerful pick is sometimes confidence inspiring. Ice tools are specifically designed to climb ice. Nearly every simple ice-axe on the market today climbs as well as the old classic Chouinard piolet, with which masters were climbing WI6 back in the 1970s. Inertialess picks with tungsten and lead balls inside 00 - Pure ice (optimized for cold, hard and high-density ice). 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 Oct 24, 2018 · as others have suggested above, ice up to I-5 or so can be climbed with a short (60cm) "standard" ice axe and an alpine/north wall hammer. Examples of these specialized ice axes include the Cassin X-Dream and the Petzl Nomic among others. Awesome multi purpose ice axe/tool hybrid. An ice tool is a specialized form of ice axe that’s used for vertical ice climbing. I am looking to get out in backcountry skiing more, and have noticed there is an option for a ski pole with an ice axe pick on the top, specifically, the Black Diamond Whippet. The cascade pick entered the ice well again causing minimal shattering and aiding first time placements. Mine is a "medium length" so it could cross over between Alpine Axe and Ice Tool. The Venom features a curved shaft and aggressive pick options, which make it one of the best steep snow and ice climbing axes in our review. Adze: On general-mountaineering ice axes, the opposite side of the head to the pick is the adze: a flattened, squared-off wedge. Countless revisions over the past 200 years have taken it from being a straight Mar 22, 2019 · The spike is well designed, which allows the axe to be inserted vertically for self-anchoring or as a back-up while belaying. A pick built for glacier travel won't swing into ice as easily as a pick built for ice climbing. 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. Its PUR’ICE pick allows efficient placement in a variety of types of ice. Steep Ice and Snow. Apr 7, 2021 · Mike Lewis carries the Blue Ice Akila ice axes into the Colorado Backcountry for a day of alpine ice climbing. Thanks to its adjustable ergonomic handle, it offers multiple grip modes and limits the risk of snagging when switching hands. Try to lift your head and shoulders off the snow. 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. 3mm at the tip. As the strength and norms for the head and the shaft are different, combinations can be found. The Akila is Jan 12, 2022 · An ice axe is an essential piece of kit to carry in the winter hills and mountains. 5mm pick tip sinks like a hot knife into butter on steep, technical ice. It appears as a utility in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 and Modern Warfare 2 Campaign Remastered, and as a melee weapon in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Remastered, Call of Duty: WWII, Call of Duty: Mobile, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, Call English Français Deutsch Italiano Español. Every ounce counts in high-end alpinism and ice climbing. The shaft is covered with special abrasive paint for perfect grip. These ice axes were all tested during the winter 2020/21 season during Lucy’s work as a Winter Mountain Leader and play (when she was locked down on Feb 14, 2024 · The head of an ice axe consists of a curved, toothed pick on one side and a short adze on the other. This gear guide was first published in the February 2018 issue of The Great Outdoors. These ratings apply separately to the shaft and pick of the axe, and whilst this is generally relevant to axes intended for technical climbing, eg. Versatile ice axe especially suitable for demanding technical mountaineering and ice climbing / 50 cm / 610 g Activities at height such as climbing, via ferrata, caving, rappelling, ski-touring, rescue, work at height and exploration are dangerous activities, which may lead to severe injury or even death. Its adze provides a wide enough blade to quickly clear snow to place your ice screw. Very good penetration in ice: - pick tapers to 3 mm at the tip - reduced pick height - weights may be used to optimize the balance of the ice axe; Easy removal: - special profile of the pick - tapered upper edge for better ice cutting - beveled lower teeth; Serrated on the top for efficient use when the ice axe is turned upside-down: Sep 26, 2023 · Ice axe anatomy Pick: The “blade” of the axe, used to swing into ice or during a self-arrest maneuver. You just need something sized for comfort. Overall: The Fusion 2 is an amazing and super-strong mixed climbing axe that operates well on ice too. Learn the nuances of gear selection for hiking, mountaineering, and technical climbs, and ensure your safety with our Mountain Logic recommendations. The best Nov 2, 2018 · If you carry your ice-axe in the old fashioned way; slid in between your back and your pack; swapping over takes milliseconds with practice. Discontinued Ice Tool Spares. The pick is designed to have a curved shape, allowing it to efficiently grip the ice and provide stability. BD Raven Pro in the longest length for easy stuff but my favourite axe was always the original Chouinard piolet 75cm with the laminated bamboo shaft because of its wonderful balance Oct 25, 2022 · The B rating is given to ice axes designed to perform Basic functions. How to Hold an Ice Axe Parts of an Ice Axe. The Pick: The Jun 10, 2019 · In addition to use during glacial travel, an axe like Petzl’s Glacier Ice Axe provides lightweight performance with a steel pick and an adze for chopping tent platforms or building a snow anchor. a shorter axe climbs steep snow better and lets you move through short ice sections just fine, especially when paired with a more technical 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. By Chris Townsend. Some ice axes also have adjustable handles/grips whilst the style of the axe will define the shape of the shaft, its build strength and whether there is a spike on its end. Main features: fully modular head for adapting the ice axe to all the various activities on ice and mixed technical climbing; equipped with: interchangeable ICE blade, for use on icefalls, with a shaped profile that enables optimal hooking and penetration into the ice; Oct 5, 2016 · While other picks would quickly get blunt or develop a “dolphin nose” with such treatment, the DMM ice picks kept their sharpness well over time, with minimal re-sharpening needed–perhaps in part because of their large taper of 3. 95. How to choose the right-sized mountaineering ice axe. The easiest way to distinguish an ice axe from an ice tool is the shape of the pick. The Raven Pro's pick is a little wider and less aggressive than most. An ice axe has several components. Before using your ice axe, you'll need to know its basic components: Pick: This is the sharp, pointed bottom end of the ice Apr 18, 2018 · Carbon, Kevlar, and craftsmanship produce incredibly light yet robust tools, Elite Climb’s Salamandra ice axes. Ice Axes If you come from a mountaineering background, you might be familiar with ice axes: straight-shafted tools with pickaxe-like silhouettes. From The Akila is the first B/Type 1 ice axe to achieve such high level of technicality in the ultralight category. As a rule, shorter models are better for steep terrain, while longer ones are useful for low-angle slopes and building snow anchors. 25 cm Pick length Feb 10, 2019 · The Bottom Line: As a mountaineering axe, the Gully is at its best. The tapered titanium pick sticks nicely in moderate ice or neve; otherwise, it is compact and functional in steep snow. Because we often want to chop and scrape hard snow and ice, the axe head will also have a sharp adze. Both were not what I wanted in an ice axe pole. There are two main pick shapes available for ski axes. by Michael Powers, IFMGA AAI Senior Guide & Director for Staff Development. True. - 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 Ice Axe Accessories. How to Size a Classic Axe. Apr 27, 2012 · This works well but I still wanted a fully functional ice axe and a pole combined in one tool. It's also the central piece of gear in REI's origin story: Our founders, Lloyd and Mary Anderson, formed the co-op after struggling to find a quality ice axe anywhere in the U. 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. Low weight is why you buy this ice axe. Ice tools are designed specifically for vertical waterfall ice, glacier ice, or mixed rock and ice climbing. From £12. 50. Found this comment made by u/Cyrcle. pure water ice vs. 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. Also, the pick is fixed, so if the axe gets heavy use, that’s it. Mar 6, 2025 · All of BD's Hydra-compatible picks are treated with a specific heat treating process that ensures they are pretty tough, although only the mixed and dry picks are T-rated. 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. Jan 28, 2022 · The number of different modular-headed ice axes has increased in the past few years, and manufacturers are responding to this rapidly growing hybrid category. ice climbing or mixed climbing) conditions. Jan 22, 2025 · A great all-rounder of a winter hillwalking ice axe from a reputable brand. 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. Ice Tool Spares Cortex/Apex/Vertex Ice Pick : C0382: Black: 228g: Ice Tool Spares Cortex/Apex/Vertex Ice Tech Pick : C0384: Black: 106g: Ice Tool Spares Cortex/Apex/Vertex Micro Hammer : A0470MH: Black: 22g: Ice Tool Spares Cortex/Apex/Vertex Pick Weights : A0470PW: Black: 90g (total per pack of 2) Ice Tool Spares Cortex/Apex Dry Pick : C0383 An ice tool is a specialized elaboration of the modern ice axe, and often described broadly as an ice axe or technical axe, used in modern ice climbing and mixed climbing. Technical ice climbers always use wrist loops so they can hang on their tools on vertical ice. ly/NKhh Dec 8, 2022 · In the 1940s, legendary Scottish climber Hamish MacInees designed the first all-metal ice axe. When there’s snow on the hills walkers need an ice axe. Types of Ice Axe. It is used mainly to help with balance and as a safety tool. Login; Search; Cart; Close Which ice axe do I choose? The ice axe is an indispensable winter tool, essential for safe travel on snow and ice. No Don't wait until you're standing on an exposed slope to have your axe in hand. you can throw on a Jan 2, 2025 · But like all the gear on these missions, the harness still has to withstand jagged rock, ice screw teeth, ice axe picks, and sharp ice features. 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. Sep 29, 2013 · Simple: the pick of the axe is almost as good, if not superior, for chopping into ice. For general mountaineering, the common length was 70 cm and for climbing ice, the common length was 50 or 60 cm and the pick was curved downwards a bit more. It is actually quite common to have a CE-T shaft with a CE-B pick. The shaft is T rated and the axe comes with T rated picks. The Edelrid Prisma Guide checked all the boxes for May 25, 2022 · These specialized ice axes are specifically designed for vertical ice climbing and extremely steep terrains. Illustrations show Balmat carrying two separate tools – an alpenstock and a small axe that could be used to cut steps in icy slopes. A classic ice axe with modern manufacturing techniques is less likely to have a B type head than a technical ice axe for ice climbing: T heads tend to be thicker and do not penetrate fusion ice as well, apart from being an activity that doesn’t cause torsion on the head. Its pick is quite tapered for a lighter axe and was able to penetrate firm snow and ice surprisingly well relative to its weight. Ice Axe Bolt Set Spares. Climbs ice better than expected, and performs great as a ice tool. They possess extra aggressive pick angles and extra curved shafts. That said, I sometimes use one pole on my down hill side and an axe on my uphill side. To complement this piece see Samantha Leary's Walking in Crampons Mar 12, 2021 · i find that my 57cm BD venom gets pulled out way more than my 65cm straight shaft raven on anything remotely technical. If you do slip and fall, you'll use your ice axe to stop your fall—this is called self-arrest. Use As Improvised Anchor. A classic curved pick works best for self-arrest and snow climbing, while a sharp, recurved pick works best for steep ice and névé climbing but is less predictable in a self-arrest situation. Seashell - A conical shell with a sharp point. ice axes; Considerations for ice climbing vs. Its purpose is to grip and stabilize climbers by firmly biting into the ice. 99. ) The Ice Pick is a melee weapon introduced in HITMAN™ 2. There is no point in carrying an ice axe if you have no clue how to use one. The ice pick is noticeably thin at the end, great for penetrating water ice, but less confidence inspiring if you wanted to take it on mixed ground. - 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 - TRIGREST QUARK handrest is height adjustable without tools - GRIPREST QUARK handrest folds in easily Jan 22, 2025 · Clockwise from top left: Stamping out ice axe handles – before and after; Ice axe shafts being tumbled; Part of the Pick production process; Drilling out rivet holes before assembly Construction In the assembly room Peter has laid out all the constituent parts of a Spire axe. Mar 20, 2019 · The Petzl Sum'Tec is a true hybrid of a traditional ice axe and an ice tool. 0 - Optimized for ice but also good for mixed His victim had been stabbed with an ice pick over 20 times. The shape of the ice axe and the double handle offer multiple grip modes, as well as stable hand switching. Mar 15, 2019 · The NOMIC ice axe sets the standard for ice climbing. This refers to the back of the ice axe head (opposite the pick). Sum’Tec is somewhat unique in that it has a B rated pick, and a T rated shaft. In summary, if you're someone who hikes and climbs in moderate terrain and are looking for a lightweight, simple, yet reliable ice axe, then the Petzl Glacier, according to many online reviews, would be a strong contender. Dec 25, 2024 · Parts of an ice axe. Since then I quit bringing the trekking pole and solely use the ice axe everywhere. Of course you call always swap out the pick for the thinner Pur’Ice or thicker Pur’Dry picks. The Akila is the first B/Type 1 ice axe to achieve such high level of technicality in the ultralight category. The combination creates a lightweight, fairly technical tool. [ 1 ] [ 2 ] [ 3 ] Modern ice climbers usually use them in pairs when ascending an ice climbing route , and thus in some circumstances such as top-rope - anchored climbs, a Hold the ice axe the same way as you would during a normal self-arrest — one hand on the head, one hand on the spike end of the shaft. From £19. Breaking down an Ice Axe. As a longtime user of the earlier models, he reports that the tools continue to live up to his expectations. Jan 29, 2015 · I don't agree that most manufacturers' ice-axe offerings are good for nothing more than easy glacier work and ski-mountaineering. Perfectly balanced and equipped with weights, it provides an exceptional swing. Just Mountaineering, get any walking axe. They are designed to be used singly rather than as a pair. Like the Sum'Tec, we feel good about using Dec 23, 2015 · Basic axes are NOT strong enough for technical climbing!-Technical ice axes and ice/mixed climbing tools are designated with a T (technical) stamp. 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). Of all the tools a mountaineer carries, the ice axe is perhaps the most iconic. 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. (Recurve picks are better for steeper ice, and straighter picks are more advantageous for snow. As climbing became more popular and demand increased, ice axes were mass-produced with drop forge machines. [Photo] Yaroslav Lototskyy. No model is as much of a blend between a traditional ice axe and an ice tool than the Petzl Sum'tec, and that's a good thing. Aug 13, 2020 · For serious technical climbing and winter trips where the ice axe will be used frequently for multiple snow and ice conditions I would absolutely go with an ice axe, but for limited summer use these are great option. The design remained pretty much the same for over 100 years with only a slight droop on the pick. Gear up for ice and alpine climbing with Black Diamond. An ice tool is shorter, and has a curved shaft and a reverse curved pick. Pick: The pointy end of the head, the ice axe’s pick is used for driving into the snowpack in a self-arrest situation, or into ice or glazed snow when climbing near-vertical or sheer slopes. At 7. The G1 is a CEN B rated ice axe, meaning it is suitable to be used as a deadman or in a “T-slot” type situation for moderate loads. There may be snow conditions where the longer ice axe pick can penetrate deeper, providing more friction during the arrest. The majority of mountaineering ice axes have what’s called a positive curve where the pick arcs downward from the head of the shaft slightly Mar 21, 2024 · The new Edelrid Rage ice axe was a highly effective tool for taking down big routes in Alaska's backcountry this winter. However, it can’t do this by itself. Its job is to help reduce the chance of slips and trips while crossing snow and ice, provide security on steep ground and to aid the arrest of a fall. Two holes- on top to attach HMS (pick) and on the bottom to attach cord. For the Specialist equipment, see Icepick. But the Rage ice pick penetrated the diamond-like ice cleanly and Type 2: Technical tools with a higher strength pick and shaft, important for technical ice and mixed climbing involving torqueing picks. 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. Each season, gear Mar 21, 2019 · However, it, along with the nearly identically designed CAMP Corsa Nanotech, was the least comfortable axe to carry in self-arrest position (pick backward), as it doesn't feel natural whatsoever. We thought the G1 featured a well-designed pick If we could only own one ice axe, this would be it: Built with versatility and steep alpine routes in mind, this model has the shaft of an ice axe with the head of an ice tool: A surprisingly versatile axe considering its impressively low weight: A solid general mountaineering axe for a great price: Rating Categories: Petzl Gully: Petzl Summit NORTH COULOIR, equipped with the ICE blade and the IMPACT HAMMER. Nb. The rubber handles inhibit plunging in snow but it'll work to self arrest. Even when the designs of ice axes developed over the years and we saw slightly bent shafts, the leash was key in being able to climb steep ice. The leash was as important as choosing the best ice axe at the time. Within the world of hybrid tools, I notice three types of design combinations: 1) extremely light, primarily aluminum tools with mountaineering picks (less sharp and more flat) made for ski and non-technical mountaineering such as the Camp Corsa (50-70cm May 15, 2024 · The pick and spike corrosion resistant tip will have you using this ice axe for seasons to come. Jan 28, 2019 · The Air Tech Evo's pick is a positive curve but is slightly more aggressive than average; it has larger teeth, allowing it to excel when driven into snow or ice. However, I have seen that some of them have a slight curvature and some don't. [6] The most feared hitman of his day, Abe Reles, used the ice pick as his weapon of choice, usually stabbing his victims in the ear. [7] [8] According to New York City police, ice picks are still used today as street weapons. Discontinued Bolt Set Spares. The only combos I know of are the Petzl snowscopic and the Stubai tour lite trekking pole ice axe. These are generally heavier, more expensive and more durable. Ice axes are crude instruments. An Ice Axe is a tool used to climb-up, break-up, pick, or chip at ice. There’s a large variety of axes out there however most ice axes fall into one of Mountaineering ice axes mostly range from 45-75cm. Modern packs have easy ice axe slings to carry them with. Steep snow and ice are where the Raven Pro didn't particularly excel. Perfectly balanced, equipped with weights, it offers an exceptional swing. Top quality, great selection and expert advice you can trust. This article does not include ice axe arrest, a separate topic that we will cover in detail in a future article. 3mm at the tip back to 4mm toward the head (measurement from Dave Noddings of DMM). The major difference is ice axes compared to ice tools. Not for rock. The manufacturer has received a CE T-rating for the picks so these should be safe to use in the mountains and for mixed where torquing and caming may be required. The NOMIC ice axe sets the standard for ice climbing. The PUR'ICE pick provides efficient placement in any type of ice. The weight, curvature, and material of the shaft all influence what activity the ice axe is best for. Jun 14, 2019 · The Sum’tec comes with Petzl’s ICE pick, a very versatile T-rated pick that tapers from 4mm to 3. It's ultra lightweight, short, and very ski-centric. Very thin pick. My advice would be to borrow, rent, or purchase a set of ice tools. It serves as the main contact point between the climber and the ice. You usually only use 1 ice axe. This leaves the High Quality Pretty Blue Chouinard Ice Axe (did it make up for the "smart remark?"). You will need to use your core muscle here. Add to Cart . snow climbing; Ice tools: Features to look for Aluminum vs. Versatile ice axe for a wide range of use. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Aug 22, 2018 · In the early 1960's Hamish MacInnes and Benjamin and Steven Massey started production of the first ice axes made entirely of metal called the MacInnes Massey ice axe. g. if going for a 2nd axe, i would highly recommend something with interchangeable picks like the venom or sum'tec. Misc: If you are looking for an axe predominantly for ice, then the carbon fibre Black Diamond Cobra or the lower priced Black Diamond Viper might be more suited. There's not much to it. Jun 21, 2024 · Technical ice axes are used for steep snow and ice climbing. They're all pretty light. It features a well-designed, high-quality hot-forged pick, which is widely regarded as the best construction method an axe could have. Follow these steps to measure yourself for an ice axe: Produced by a blacksmith in Poland, these picks are designed to fit all major manufacturers of ice axe. Shop crampons, ice axes, ice screws, harnesses, carabiners, ropes, and more essential equipment for your next mountain adventure. An ice axe is usually longer and has a straighter profile Different styles of picks have different applications. Question: From the January 2007 edition of AAI's E-newsletter. Ice tools are much shorter and are NOT called ice axes. Alpine (ice, allround): Get a Sumtec and a Quark hammer, maybe another quark later. 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. Weight. New items. This is because your axe could be B or T rated depending on your pick selection. The ICE pick allows easy penetration in any type of ice, and pulls out easily. Jul 25, 2012 · Whittaker Mountaineering Guide Team member Melissa Arnot reviews her Guide Pick ice axe choices, the Black Diamond Raven Pro (available at http://bit. The top end of the ice axe has a head with a toothed and curved pick. Ice axes are a mountaineering tool used for ascending snow slopes. Black Diamond - Hot Forged Natural Ice Pick . Don’t let the “all-around” title confuse you; these are meant for ice climbing. most any axe you can buy today will have a pick that will perform equal to or better than the original Chouinard piolet, which pioneers used to push standards to WI6 in the 1970s. There are two standard CEN classes of ice axes: B, the lighter weight mountaineering axes, and T, heavier, stronger ice tools. Grivel also heavily tapers their pick so that it has the best chance to penetrate the snow or ice with its thin pick but is thicker closer to the shaft, which provides more support in This is to say that I will be using an ice axe for both climbing steep slopes and as a hiking pole. The spike of the axe can also be used to dig in the right sort of snow. If in doubt I would recommend looking for an ice axe with both a T rated shaft and pick. Perfect for climbers aiming for Rainier, Denali, and beyond. For moderate terrain, you will want to size your ice axe a little longer than you might otherwise. If you plan on climbing really steep stuff a curve can help stop the pick coming out. He writes, "If you already have a set of the last Quarks, maybe you don't need to jump to an upgrade just yet, but if you want a set of axes that handle it all, and are in the market for Designed for classic mountaineering, the SUMMIT ice axe offers an excellent balance between price and performance. This grip helps for arresting too. The Sum'tec is the brainchild of the late Ueli Steck (along 2 days ago · Mountaineering Ice Axes vs. Navigate snow and ice with confidence using our detailed guide to choosing ice axes and crampons. However, its light weight makes it tough to judge how much power to put into the swing, and as a result it’s hard to not over-drive the ice axe. Apr 11, 2024 · This season, I secured a Blue Ice Hummingbird, which at 200g is both the lightest axe in my quiver and still quite functional. Mar 16, 2025 · Lucy Wallace reviewed axes with picks in the ‘Alpine’ style – gently curved and well suited to walking terrain and ice axe arrest. I have seen there is a wide variety of ice axes, mainly I assume I am interested in a more general purpose one such as the Petzl Summit or the BD Raven Grip. The Petzl Glacier self-arrests capably, has a slightly more aggressive pick than other options (which means it climbs steeper snow slightly better), and has a wide, squared-off adze that clears out snow well. Nowadays, we enjoy Ice tools vs. Thin enough to stick well in ice without but still thick enough to take a beating. The bigger deciding factor is the type of pick you have. Hybrids between an axe and tool do exist. Head and pick in hot-forged steel, ensuring solid anchoring: - thin (3 mm) pick, durable and toothed at the tip, ensuring good anchoring quality in hard snow and ice - pick is thicker in the middle to favor anchoring in soft snow - teeth on upper part of pick strengthen the hold on the ice axe in piolet-rampe mode May 18, 2015 · The G1's pick isn't super aggressive (one reason it self-arrests so well) but was aggressive enough for moderate snow and ice routes. His early ice axes and ice hammers had a straight, slightly declined pick that were not sufficiently “dropped” for direct aid on vertical ice. The T rating is given to Technical axes designed for climbing and mountaineering use. pigla yabzyn nwd ayhr xdiea ycwvr ecfr stiywv pqla jnufcbzv liniti iigncl ccqjw asko hfl