Mountaineering walking axe Type 2: Modern leashless tools suitable for ice axe belaying, and also designed for hard modern mixed climbing involving torquing picks etc. M. The top of an axe. They often have a basket at the front and a clip at the rear, this clip only fits on boots with a rear welt (ledge). Mountaineers prefer a slightly shorter ice axe, because it is slightly easier to use on steep terrain. 00 £104. Sizes in Grivel's Brenva S. Lightweight trapezoidal, slightly curved aluminum shaft with grooved grip for more control during self-arrest or climbing ; Investment-cast, one-piece stainless-steel head with a tuned aggressive pick and large hole for a carabiner Jan 16, 2006 · In reply to wushu:Those boots are unlikely to be up to winter climbing/walking. Its length means it can still be used for support when walking up snow slopes. 6 ounces; Charlet Moser has merged into Petzl now, which is a shame, because this maker's name is legendary. . The Orgins of the Ice AxeThe predecessor of the ice axe was the alpenstock, a Jan 14, 2022 · In our article on how to use an ice axe, we go into the three types of ice axes, but basically you need to know if you’re using yours for walking, mountaineering or ice climbing. The “B” rated axe is more suitable for ski mountaineering where weight is the key issue. Aluminium heads are used on the lightweight models. Oct 31, 2024 · Elsewhere in the world, this might be called ‘winter hiking’, or even ‘basic winter mountaineering’. Member's Price £200. CAMP makes an excellent lightweight axe called the Corsa that I recommend a lot. 1: Rab Khroma Tour Glove. The slightly lighter all-aluminum version is less useful because of the aluminum pick and spike, but the Nanotech version with its steel pick and spike is all the ice axe I've ever needed. B rated axes are fine for hillwalking and general mountaineering. Is a lighter or heavier axe better? At one extreme is a walking axe, which will have a long, straight shaft and a traditionally shaped head with only a slight curve on the pick, while technical climbing tools may have curved shafts and ‘reverse curve’ picks. Occupying a distinct and very useful intermediate niche, this is the lightest Type 2 technical axe that DMM have ever made, their Also longer axe can be almost used as a walking stick but problem is that sucks whenever the climbing begins. 5. It’s less tiring both for step cutting and for climbing with the pick as when you swing the axe the weight helps carry it forward. Type 2 or T-rated axes are stronger and can be used on more difficult and graded winter climbs. As such we’ve put together this succinct buying guide to mountaineering axes: Difference between a walking and climbing axe? Apr 7, 2021 · Being hybrid axes, they bridge general mountaineering with technical ice climbing. The hot forged head is very strong, with a classic angled pick. Compared to a straight shaft I find this gives the axe a slightly more precise feel in the hand when used spike down in piolet canne (walking stick) mode, with the angle between the head and the spike feeling just right when you're plunging the point into snow. T or B rated? Jun 19, 2014 · DMM’s classic walking and mountaineering axe. Get a set of adjustable ski poles and a 55cm axe. It’s where an axe should be held when walking. 11 $222. Overall: The Fusion 2 is an amazing and super-strong mixed climbing axe that operates well on ice too. Shop for ice axes at Whittaker Mountaineering. Dec 19, 2021 · A mountaineering or alpine axe occupies the middle ground between a walking axe and a technical climbing axe. An ice axe is a handy piece of equipment for pulling yourself up a slope covered in thick snow. Photo Galleries; My Photo Gallery; Latest Photos; Weekly Top 10; Videos Mar 10, 2018 · In reply to. This article looks at how to choose it and then how to use it, so that you can discover some of the great places the ice axe can take you. Many of the particular skills required for safe winter walking are better demonstrated than described. Whilst better for climbing, this makes self arrest quite tricky so take care. Ice axe. 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. g. Ice Axes For Glacier Travel And Ski Mountaineering. GZERO a very light ice axe for classical alpinism that still has all the characteristics of a Grivel ice axe including, head that provides maximum strength and minimal weight. 95 ( $222. In the winter months we’ll work on such skills as traveling as a roped team, walking in crampons, using a mountaineering axe properly, and self arresting a fall. For climbing, a good, grippy shaft and simple leash will be useful additions. Feb 7, 2024 · My first 'lightweight' general mountaineering axe was the first gen of the Grivel Air Tech Racing - I got it in 2001 I think. For a second axe you can't get 'too technical'. Feb 5, 2021 · Along with suitable footwear and crampons a walking/mountaineering axe is an essential piece of kit to carry. Our popular workhorse walking and mountaineering axe is now even sleeker and stronger. The only real requirement is that you need an axe with which you can perform self-arrest maneuvers. Hold the ice axe’s head with both hands and plunge the spike straight into the snow. If you have a decent level of experience of summer hiking in Scotland then you should be ready to try winter hill walking! Enter password below to access the store: Password. neuromancer:. The gently curved pick and shaft gives excellent self-arrest performance, while a spike on the handle provides grip and stability on snow and ice slopes. The gently curved T rated shaft is designed for easy plunging into banked snow and for more efficient arresting. ice climbing or mixed climbing) conditions. Its first incarnation was actually as two different tools: the hand axe and the alpenstock. Glacier Walking; Mountaineering; Ice Climbing & Dry Tooling; Rock Climbing; Bouldering; Ski Mountaineering; Trail Running; Axe guard Sale price $13 Add to cart Vintage 50s 1950s Austria Stubai Climbing Ice Axe Ax Pick Glacier Mountain Mountaineering Alpinism Gear Lodge Cabin Decor (320) Sale Price $205. Feb 14, 2024 · Rotor or spring leashes can be attached to your waist, overcoming this issue, but they require wearing a climbing harness. I have a proper length Cirque for walking, or Switches for climbing (plus a lightweight axe for when I'm not really expecting to use an axe a lot, a Glacier Lite). To complement this piece see Samantha Leary's Walking in Crampons Jan 3, 2019 · Types of axe. Learning how to use an axe is also a fun skill to learn if you like learning backcountry skills. Shop All Sale; Climbing & Mountaineering Blue Ice Blackbird Walking Axe. Apr 12, 2019 · With its gently curved shaft, and reverse curved steel pick, the Attila Tec is at the more technical end of the mountaineering axe spectrum. There are two basic types of ice axe: those with a B rating and those with a T rating. We also hire B2 boots, crampons & climbing axes. Apr 24, 2018 · Heading to the Alps this year? Chris Townsend reviews an ice axe suitable for all levels of general mountaineering. You’ll need a different ice axe for mountaineering up Everest compared to ice climbing a waterfall in Canada. Winter skills for the hills. Nov 16, 2010 · If you are heading out on grade IIs and you want a second axe to compliment an existing walking/mountaineering axe then a short fully technical one works best - infinitely better than two walking axes. When going winter climbing, I find a 50cm technical axe rather annoyingly short for walk-ins where I feel the need to have an axe in my hand 'just in case' (but not annoying enough to want to take my walking axe just for that part of the day!) Apr 12, 2019 · With its gently curved shaft, and reverse curved steel pick, the Attila Tec is at the more technical end of the mountaineering axe spectrum. They have a mix of vertical walking points and horizontal climbing points. Dec 19, 2016 · It’s also quite heavy – unnecessarily so for a pure walking axe. The spike of the axe should come to the ankle bone or a bit above. Axes for May 13, 2008 · Following the Review of the ULA Helix Potty Trowel, there was considerable discussion on the Backpacking Light Forum (MYOG, DIY walking axe) regarding the use of a light "ice axe" in areas where one's life or ultimate safety would not be an issue. Humans have long been enthralled by the high mountains, and a curiosity to answer that nagging question – “Could I climb up there?”If you are interested in getting involved in the pursuit of mountaineering, this […] Snow travel, steep snow climbing and glacier travel all require use of the long traditional mountaineering ice axe as a point of connection to the snow. An ice axe for general mountaineering should not be so long that it is used as a trekking pole. The Curve Of The Shaft Walking axes, used more like trekking poles, have straight shafts, while mountaineering axes, which are swung by the post when climbing, have a more curved profile. It is used to provide a secure support when you're walking or to make it easy to plunge the axe into snow for a belay or rescue. Jun 19, 2014 · DMM’s classic walking and mountaineering axe. Though the Snowalker is thus now built under the Petzl name, it remains a brilliant all-purpose mountaineering axe, light yet rugged. It’s not just the right mountaineering clothing and mountaineering boots and shoes you need on the mountainside: you need the right crampon and ice axe too. An ice axe weighs next to nothing and can make the difference between a harrowing day and one that’s easily managed. 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. Dec 28, 2024 · C2: A stiffer crampon, great for bridging the gap from walking to gentle climbing. Aug 15, 2009 · In reply to anon1234: It's worth bearing in mind that there's a difference between a "walking" axe and a "mountaineering" axe. Taking the time to feel the snow beneath your footsteps. We will hire DMM Spire Tech axes to you on a mountaineering course if you rent directly from LDM. The Sum-Tec is a modular axe that is great for mountaineering, but will progress well into climbing up to Grade III when paired. General Mountaineering Axes → Great for walking and basic climbing. Mar 9, 2024 · The Grivel G1 Plus is a classic general mountaineering ice axe. The more climbing and the less walking the shorter the better (to a min of around 50cm), that said I would be taking my technical ice tools on anything at all tricksy. The winter skills videos below have been prepared by Glenmore Lodge and offer a useful introduction to the equipment and skills required for heading to the Scottish mountains in winter: Dec 23, 2013 · The axe is equipped with a DMM Standard Leash which is easy to adjust and gives a comfortable and secure attachment to the axe. For hillwalking and simple mountaineering (the two tend to merge when the hills are snowy) a rather more prosaic general mountaineering or walking axe is needed. excellent walking axe; 14. Nov 27, 2024 · For a walking axe, a bit more length makes it easier to use, while climbing axes are usually shorter. com When selecting a mountaineering axe, it’s important to consider exactly what you’re planning on using it for. Sale. Jan 14, 2017 · A short ice axe is useless in the lower steepness terrain. Read more: 6 of the best walking axes reviewed Mountaineering ice axe, ideal for glacier walking and easy climbs. Designs & Materials An ultralight alloy ice axe Feb 2, 2021 · For mountaineering: BLUE ICE BLUEBIRD EVO £120 On classic mountaineering ascents, be that alpine PDs or those Scottish ridges and gullies that blur the line between walking and climbing, a single axe is needed which offers security when walking on steep ground, and that can also be swung into snow or ice on steeper steps. 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. … The DMM Spire is the ideal mountaineering tool - it's tough enough to deal with the demands of modern winter mountaineering, yet light enough for walking and ski touring. Nb. Compare Prices: Best Ski Mountaineering Ice Axe: Petzl Summit Evo; A new generation of walking axe. It is constructed with a hot-forged chromoly steel head and a positively angled pick and therefore designed as optimal for fast and aggressive self-arrest. This is the workhorse glove and is most often worn on warmer days when mountaineering. Day one is a skills day. It is equipped with an adjustable leash with a rubber tip. All models are of course CE-approved and manufactured to the usual top STUBAI standards. This review is part of our ice axes gear guide, and was first published in the February 2018 issue of The Great Outdoors. All Round Ice Axes – Great for ice climbing up to grade V or even perhaps grade VI or mixed routes of a similar standard. Built to last and not too heavy. A Ice axe is a versatile alpine axe designed for winter mountain walking and mountaineering. How to Size An Ice Axe. All the axes tested are rated CEN-B (Type 1), or Basic, sufficient for walking and easy non-roped climbing. A slight reduction in length compared to a walking axe will make the axe easier to wield when climbing, without reducing its performance as a walking stick too much. See full list on thehikingadventure. Bobillow Outdoor Camping Ice Axe Walking Pick for Camping Aluminum Alloy Mountaineering Axe Glacier Climbing Tool Lightweight Design,70 Cm Gray 5. It won’t let you down, even when route taken is harder than expected. You might think all ice axes are the same, but there is a lot of variation. The pick is classically neutral with ergonomic design that remains comfortable after hours of climbing. The head of the ice axe is ergonomically shaped and thus fits well in your hand. The rucksack is from the 1950's and shows minor signs of usage but the leather draw string and all other leather straps are intact. An ice axe is required on any slope where a slip could result in a long slide or fall. Crampons make walking on slippery surfaces possible. 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. I would try and borrow equipment if you can as its an expensive hobby, you will need warm, stiff boots that are compatible with walking crampons, a walking axe, and crampons. &nbsp;</p><p>We stock leading climbing brands such as Petzl, Edelrid, DMM, Black Diamond, Climbing Technology and Grivel. If you dig around the Internet looking for ice axe advice an you’ll probably find something like: “When holding the axe by your side the spike should touch your ankle. The most notable difference between the Raven Pro and its souped-down stablemate the Raven is the former's kinked shaft. Lightweight, performance ice axes that provide a comfortable grip and good anchoring qualities. Dec 25, 2024 · Mountaineering axe. Classical ice axe, with simple steel blade and adze, with removable plastic cover for comfort and thermal protection. It’s a lovely tool for general mountaineering purposes, makes a superb walking axe, but the price tag may be off-putting. The Cirque is a well designed and strong walking and mountaineering axe. When going winter climbing, I find a 50cm technical axe rather annoyingly short for walk-ins where I feel the need to have an axe in my hand 'just in case' (but not annoying enough to want to take my walking axe just for that part of the day!) Anyone over 6'2" will want to consider an axe in the 70cm-75cm range. Self "belay" hand position and self "arrest" hand poition: Walking on easy snow, the axe is used in the cane position in the up hill hand, using the belay grip, palm over the adze, pick forward. A beautiful & complete Swiss mountaineering display consisting of a vintage rucksack with ice axe, climbing rope, crampons, pitons, field flask & glacier goggles - all from the 1940's/50's. In a fall, a flailing axe at the end of leash can also pose a hazard. A. Jan 12, 2023 · A climbing ice axe can have either a straight or curved shaft, with a traditional curve pick on a steel head. Here's how to find your correct axe size for a classic mountaineering axe: Have someone help you, so that you can concentrate on standing properly while that person carefully checks the length. They are not gear reviews and are provided by companies that advertise with UKClimbing Limited. com : Bobillow Outdoor Camping Ice Axe Walking Pick for Camping Aluminum Alloy Mountaineering Axe Glacier Climbing Tool Lightweight Design,70 Cm Gray : Sports & Outdoors Hill walking in winter can be more akin to full on mountaineering than summer hill walking. Jan 22, 2025 · A Type 1 or B-rated axe is suitable for winter walking and general mountaineering, and is likely to be lighter and cheaper. Spike: This is the sharp bottom point of the axe that penetrates snow and ice. Feb 7, 2024 · Saved Content. A heavier axe also feels more reassuring on very steep ground and hard snow than a light The Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe is an ultralight, complete feature ice axe that weighs a mere 362 grams. Most modern hill walking and mountaineering axes weigh anywhere between 250 and 700 grams / 9 ounces and 25 ounces. Take a look at the Petzl Sum-Tec. They look similar, but a mountaineering axe is stronger and can be used for belays etc. You'll be happier in the long run if you get into climbing and you don't have to cut it down in a couple of years when you realize it's too big. May 11, 2012 · A shorter axe will be much more manageable all around. A classic mountaineering axe, the Camp Neve Ice Axe combines style with performance with its ergonomic design and multi-functionality. The choice in axes is large. The steeper the terrain is the shorter variant more convenient is. Mar 16, 2025 · A lighter axe is great on the pack, but might not have the heft necessary for comfortable step-cutting or climbing. The bottom line is you can buy a lighter axe for specific applications, but you can't buy a better do-everything performer for as many alpine-oriented tasks. Softshell gloves are water-resistant and durable. 11 /100 cm) FREE delivery May 29 - 30 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. Learning how to size an ice axe is crucial to technical mountaineering. Weight. The axe should feel well balanced and natural when swung. Walking Shoes Petzl Nomic Ice Climbing Axe. Mountaineering Axes For classic Alpine ascents like climbing Monte Rosa, or on any of our alpine mountaineering courses, a good quality traditional axe is ideal. However for climbing the extra weight has advantages. A mountaineering axe is a more technical version of a walking axe. How an axe feels while holding it in this position is essentially what makes an axe comfortable (or not). Your axe offers stability on snowy terrain, with a pick for security when embedded in névé or in ice axe arrest mode, and a shovel (adze) to cut steps and dig belay positions. 00. P. It also features a rubber grip. Listening to the snow react to your weight. It also features a fold-out grip rest, making it easier to hold whilst climbing tricky sections, and an ergonomic plastic head grip, to keep your hands warm when holding the axe in the classic way. 0 out of 5 stars 1 1 offer from $65. SAFETY WARNINGS By clicking on the link below, you will be able to view security alerts relating to our products. Jan 24, 2024 · Like all aspects of mountaineering and climbing good secure footwork and balance is the key to safe movement and the ice axe should always be seen as an aid to this rather than the absolute point of focus. A longer ice axe can still be used well in 45° terrain. It has a straight shaft, made of anodised aluminium tubing, and the slightest of curves in the head. Without them there are limits to where you can safely go. The Intro to Mountaineering weekend course will teach you the skills needed to climb a peak. Mountaineering Crampons and Ice Axes. Over the years, these two implements were melded to create the ice axe of the late 19th and early to mid 20th centuries. – Oct 21, 2024 · This is a great ice axe for winter walking, backpacking, thru-hiking, ski mountaineering, and more. The ‘alpine curve’ pick is more pronounced to give better hold when daggering or swinging into hard snow. Petzl Gully Hammer £140. An axe designed for technical climbing is meant for scaling frozen waterfalls, icefalls, and ice-covered rock slabs. Ice axe sizes state the distance from the tip of the axe to the top of its head; sizes are listed in centimeters because ice axes originated in Europe. We have the right ice axe for every type of tour. Instead, most climbers SHOULD aim for the spike to touch the ground in terrain that is 25-40 degrees where you actually want a third point of contact to increase stability. Edelrid Rage Mixed and Ice Climbing Axe £185. For glacier travel, easy snow climbs and ski mountaineering. What is mountaineering?Mountaineering is the act of climbing mountains, consisting of rock, snow, ice or a combination of all three. As a walking axe, I find it comfortable to hold. Oct 19, 2018 · After your boots, an ice axe is possibly the single most useful piece of kit for winter walking. The author, Steven Evans, asked specific questions regarding the required length of such an ice axe, the general use of such an ice axe, and what Nov 5, 2006 · The “T” rating means that you can belay off it and it will perform all the duties you would expect of a hill walking and mountaineering axe. Some models are equipped with a high strength steel head. Proper length can be further determined by holding the axe by its head with your shoulders square. It makes a stable anchor to hold onto. Jan 1, 2017 · They also make walking easier and open up the mountains in winter. You will need a helmet too; it’s Sale Mens Womens Equipment Camping Climbing Walking Brands Discover. The DMM Spire is a lightweight ice axe that is well suited for winter walking and ski touring, with potential to branch into more demanding winter mountaineering days. We have the right crampon and ice axe to suit your ability and skill. Something that shouldn’t be underestimated if it’s going to be in your hand for hours at a time. Technical Ice Tools → Needed for steeper, more technical routes. Use it alone, or with the addition of crampons, for a secure day out in winter. A very curved technical tool is difficult to bury so a less curved tool is better for a buried ice axe belay likely in general mountaineering. Now redesigned, the Raven is lighter, and sports an updated investment-cast, stainless steel head ergonomically improved fo 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. They often have leather palms and fingers. Rab. A heavier axe also feels more reassuring on very steep ground and hard snow than a light In this episode of the Alpine Snow Skills Series we are going to take a closer look at ice axes and show you what type of ice axe you will need and why, foll Edelrid Rage Mixed and Ice Climbing Axe £185. Clothing: Mountaineering Axe: Utilized in ascending or descending snow slopes. View all Multisport & Walking Shoes. The Italian-made Alpin Tour is described as ‘a robust general walking axe’ and it’s certainly that. Some folks prefer shorter axes -- depends on your mechanics and the terrain you'll be on. This article does not include ice axe arrest, a separate topic that we will cover in detail in a future article. The practical grip and the aluminum shaft make it easy to handle. The head will be more curved and there may be a curve in the shaft too, allowing for an easier swing when using the pick on steeper ground. It is equipped with an aluminum head and a quite straight chromoly steel shaft. Aug 22, 2018 · The modern ice axe is the end product of a long history of tools being adapted, redesigned and specialized. Jan 29, 2021 · A basic ice axe is designed to be used as a balance and safety tool when walking up or descending steep slopes, as a self-arrest tool for stopping an expected fall and down slope slide, a brake when glissading (sliding downhill on your butt), and as a retrievable snow anchor when you need to rappel down a pitch but don’t have a good natural Dec 11, 2019 · There is a common misperception that climber should want their spike to touch the ground while walking in lower angle or flat terrain while using their axe like a cane. Nov 6, 2018 · A classic winter walking and mountaineering ice axe that is fully 'T' rated. 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. The new handle provides superb grip and the fully T-rated pick and shaft provides ultimate security in self-arrest and belay building. Additionally, the ice axe has a rubber grip on the shaft for better fit when you are hooking it into snow and ice. 14 $ 205. These are often referred to as semi-automatic crampons. However, technical climbers tackling steep ice or mixed terrain might prefer a hybrid or technical ice axe with a curved shaft for greater precision. 00 Jan 17, 2024 · Best Value Mountaineering Axe: Grivel G1 Ice Axe; Best Size Range in Mountaineering Axes: Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe; Lightest Ski Mountaineering Axe: C. Technical rating . Though each type has all the same components, there are small differences in terms of shaft curvature and pick clearance that will affect your axe’s functionality 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. Trango Altum Ice Ax - Lightweight Ice Axe for Mountaineering, Ice Climbing, and Glacier Travel, Gold, 45 cm Price, product page $99. With an axe this short you have to be comfortable walking on flattish ground without the 3rd point and learn reactive self-belays (which are stronger imo, drive it in with your bodyweight and works in shallower/firmer snow cause the axe is shorter). Some T-rated axes can work perfectly well as walking axes too. S M Grivel's Air Tech Evolution Ice Axe is a classic winter mountaineering axe that won't let you down on the hill. The bottom line is that ALL walking in the winter mountains involves both hiking and mountaineering skills. Many are designed for serious technical climbing though and are unsuitable for hillwalking. If you have no climbing ambitions then a B rated axe will be adequate, and (except for Nov 10, 2021 · The shaft is ergonomically shaped at the apex of the curve to make it feel particularly friendly to the hand when daggering. Like all SMC gear, Kobahs are 100% USA made and assembled in Ferndale, Washington under the shadow of the Cascades, and Mt Baker. Jan 30, 2024 · But an ice axe is a good safety tool to carry when tackling winter routes that traverse steep, icy, or sketchy terrain. Feb 7, 2024 · Interesting that sounds like a desent change, perhaps most the old axes already passed the T rating for the burried axe test anyway which is what really matters here in most scenarios for people buying a mountaineering / walking axe where a rope may be used. (Ice-climbing axe shafts have a pronounced curvature for a more ergonomic swinging motion). These work better for very steep slopes where you’ll need to use your hands and your legs to make it up. Size in stock: 45CM Blue Ice Blackbird Walking Axe £130. 6. About this item . The Snowalker effortlessly seems to get everything right—at least for a Oct 30, 2020 · BEST FOR: CLASSIC MOUNTAINEERING. Oct 6, 2015 · I too am a member of the 6ft-tall-60cm-walking-axe club. STUBAI have developed a perfectly balanced range for the many facets of mountaineering. ” Basically, if you’re taller – your ice axe should be longer, right? Winter Mountaineering Equipment Hire; Walking Ice Axes Rental in Aviemore H eading to the mountains this winter and require walking ice axe rental in Aviemore & the Cairngorms, equip yourself safely and carry the appropriate equipment: shovel, B2 boots, crampons, walking axe, probes and transceivers. Nov 2, 2024 · You’ll need to consider using 12-point steel crampons, as these are stronger and more effective in mixed terrain and for front pointing up steep snow, as found in gullies. 14 Dec 20, 2013 · I guess though as mentioned on this thread it does depend on what your use for. 99 arrow_back_ios_new clear Multisport & Walking Shoes. Shortly after getting the Corsa Nanotech, I did a long glacier climb and decided to bring my old Raven Pro ice axe for more walking comfort. Either kind of axe is fine -- both types will get you started just as well. A walking axe is really only suitable as a walking stick and for arresting falls. The "buy a long axe" advice is coming from people who use it like a walking stick. The shaft is T rated and the axe comes with T rated picks. There’s almost always a hole at the top of the head. Bobillow Outdoor Camping Ice Axe Walking Pick for Camping Aluminum Alloy Mountaineering Axe Glacier Climbing Tool Lightweight Design,70 Cm 5. Scrambling upslope in thick snow. If you go considerably steeper one would take an ice tool anyways, but this is no longer general mountaineering and definitely not in the scope of a beginner. Jan 19, 2017 · Light yet solid; simple but effective - DMM's new Spire walking axe and Spire Tech mountaineering axe may not win awards for innovation, but both are superb value for money, says Dan Bailey, with the Spire Tech in particular being a bit of a winner all round. It's a lovely tool with nice forged head. T or B rated? When selecting a mountaineering axe, it’s important to consider exactly what you’re planning on using it for. I climb sometimes with a straight shaft technical axe (pulsar) and an old style intermediate length alpine semi technical (ie not reverse curve but a much sharper curve and sharp pick than a walking axe (the old stubai Sierra Extreme was a good example) . 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. These kind of axes never really appeal to me. We cannot recommend enough that you spend a little more money in order to get one with a stronger and better designed T rated pick made for mountaineering, rather than just a hill walking axe with a B rated pick. £130. Jan 27, 2014 · Product News at UKC presents climbing, walking and mountaineering equipment posts that will be of interest to our readers. With a leash on and a second tool I've happily climbed grade II routes with it, so again a straight shafted axes that needs a wrist loop won't be a bad axe, but, yep, modern ones There are several different styles of ice axes -- a "walking axe" is a good place to start, for general mountaineering. Nov 22, 2017 · This ultimately comes down to final use, a climbing axe will have a curved shaft and pick, an axe more for walking will likely have a straight(er) shaft and a flatter pick. Discover the basic ice axe features and which ice axe is best suited to your activity. Best for: Winter walking and easy mountaineering. Grivel says Performance versatile ice axe for mountaineering, now a "classic" in its category. These ratings tell you the strength of the axe and are based on tests on the shaft and pick. Available in four lengths the Cirque come with our standard leash for security should you accidentally drop the axe. Oct 25, 2022 · Look for a T rating and a weight typically 350g-800g This is probably my most commonly used axe for everything from Scottish hill walking, mountaineering and easy climbs, to big alpine peaks. Jan 19, 2017 · At 6'3" 55cm is far too short to be really useful as a walking axe for me. Feb 23, 2021 · Design. I've used mine from first snow steps (winter intro course in Scotland) to PD (+?) in the Alps and a couple of 5800m volcanoes in Ecuador. Enter the store Vintage 50s 1950s Austria Stubai Climbing Ice Axe Ax Pick Glacier Mountain Mountaineering Alpinism Gear Lodge Cabin Decor (320) Sale Price $205. 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 Nov 22, 2017 · This ultimately comes down to final use, a climbing axe will have a curved shaft and pick, an axe more for walking will likely have a straight(er) shaft and a flatter pick. Jan 2, 2025 · Ice Axe: Used for self-arrest, cutting steps, and general stability on steep terrain. ALPIN TOUR is a robust general walking axe with hardened steel cataphoresis black head and tapered anodized light alloy shaft. Don't rush. In the summer months we’ll be focusing more on rock skills. Awesome multi purpose ice axe/tool hybrid. Beyond that, it's really just individual preference. Jan 28, 2022 · The biggest thing worth noting is that if you're primarily using your ice axe for early season backpacking or ski mountaineering, or less technical terrain, a lighter axe will do the trick. Especially if you're planing some scrambling or firn slopes, you definitely should go for the shorter version. Its use depends on the terrain: in its simplest role it is used like a walking stick, with the mountaineer holding the head in the center of their Ice Axes, Hammers & Adzes Huge brand selection - Free delivery to UK from £75 - Buy online now! Dispatch of goods within 24 h Expert service Our day and weekend winter skills courses cover the essential skills of walking with an axe and crampons, ice axe self- arrest, navigation, winter safety, avalanche avoidance and much more to enable you to enjoy Scotland's winter mountains. How to Choose → The axe should reach your ankle when held at your side. If you carry a long walking axe, you may find that you use trekking poles less -- and vice versa with the shirt tech axe. An ice axe is a key part of mountaineering equipment, especially for winter alpinists, ski mountaineers and ice climbers. Now redesigned, the Raven is lighter, and sports an updated investment-cast, stainless steel head ergonomically improved fo They're best for steep terrain. You need the full kit including crampons and at least a single walking axe. Features Learn How to Choose an Ice Axe in our handy article. 0 out of 5 stars 1 1 offer from $5999 $ 59 99 Jun 10, 2019 · The straight shaft allows the axe to be used as a walking stick, while the pick angle and longer shaft combine for good leverage in the case of a self-arrest. Climbs ice better than expected, and performs great as a ice tool. A standard straight-shafted mountaineering ice axe used for walking up snowy and glaciated terrain such as the volcanoes of the Cascade Range, are typically 55 to 75cm in length and have an average weight somewhere around 17oz (486g). Corsa Race Ice Axe; 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. Ideal length is variable based on terrain and height of Feb 21, 2023 · Here's another to add to the collection - and while it's early days, I'm already a big fan. A slightly shorter ice axe is easier and again more effective to use in mountaineering terrain when compared with a longer walking axe. So I don't really see a Walking / Alpine axe's primary function as technical climbing. The aluminum shaft is lightest in its class, and the durable chromoly steel pick and spike offer versatility for climbing, walking, and self-arrest. For straightforward alpine climbs, a basic mountaineering axe works great. The lightweight Summit Evo Ice axe is a versatile, strong tool that can dig into the roughest of surfaces. 95 $ 99 . We have climbing tools (with some great pair deals) as well as axes designed for mountaineering, winter walking and for ski touring. These have some curve on the The SUM’TEC ice axe is extremely versatile: it adapts easily to different mountaineering activities, from classic to technical. In this episode of the Alpine Snow Skills Series we are going to take a closer look at ice axes and show you what type of ice axe you will need and why, foll Mar 19, 2012 · I can definitely recommend the DMM Cirque as a great first axe. Straight enough for walking but strong enough for climbing (all DMM axes are T-rated). An ice axe isn’t just for climbing-it’s also a vital safety tool for self-arrest if you slip. This versatile ice axe is something that can&rsquo;t be missing in your kit. Amazon. It's completely modular, so you can optimize the configuration according to the objective. vzuawxko rutkqb nspsf egkwad fllx qcvbon wphqqj tvwzysr tifay eile