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Straight ice axe. You can learn all about how to use an ice axe here.
Straight ice axe. 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. 5 days ago · Looking for reliable ice axes for your mountaineering adventures? Explore our top 15 picks to stay safe and prepared while climbing the toughest peaks. While technical climbing may not be required, it could save your life in the event of an unexpected ice axe arrest. com Jul 2, 2018 · Hi all, I'm looking for some advice on an ice axe. 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. I've only climbed single pitch ice and mixed and have a Jul 28, 2023 · Straight shaft axes are best for a general ski/split tool & an excellent choice for use as a walking cane, self arresting and cutting steps. . There are two main pick shapes available for ski axes. Walking axes are longer than an ice tool and have a straight shaft. I've only climbed single pitch ice and mixed and have a Learn how to use an ice axe to hike, chop steps, climb on steep slopes, perform self arrest and create an anchor for belaying. There’s not a whole lot of reasons to swing an axe in a hiking context, but there may be some. More on this later. Start your journey today! For walking and a first ice axe, probably a straight one like petzl glacier, general sizing other people have mentioned the hand to ankle distance while standing. Rubber grips Apr 28, 2025 · Explore the best mountaineering ice axes for different climbing styles, with tips on selecting the right axe for self-arrest, glacier travel, and technical climbs. A good grip is beneficial when swinging an axe. And in steeper winter mountaineering routes 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. What is the difference between a straight shaft axe (BD Raven) vs a slightly curved axe (Petzl Summit Evo)? Will it hinder my ability to self arrest? I plan on doing moderate mountaineering this summer in the cascades, and am looking into doing some ski mountaineering this coming winter. See full list on outdoorgearlab. You can learn all about how to use an ice axe here. If you fall, you can (hopefully) use your ice axe to stop your slide to doom. Find out how to choose the right ice axe for your intended use. They’re a good length for providing support and balance in uneven The ice axe is an essential tool for any mountaineer, playing a crucial role in safety and efficiency in mountainous terrain. A straight axe is going to be much more versatile, and you can plunge it straight and deep for a an extremely fast boot-axe belay or self-arrest. At the bottom of the shaft, also called the handle, there may be a grip. Sep 26, 2023 · Ice axe anatomy Pick: The “blade” of the axe, used to swing into ice or during a self-arrest maneuver. And a used axe will cost half as much and yours will be in the same shape after a season of use anyway. But what makes the perfect all-around tool? We explain how to choose an ideal ice axe for mountaineering. Learn how to size your ice axe, the parts of an ice axe and key features to consider. Jul 2, 2018 · Hi all, I'm looking for some advice on an ice axe. Traditionally shafts have been straight. Mar 16, 2025 · Home / Gear Guides / We get to grips with the best ice axes 2025 We get to grips with the best ice axes 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. Some axes now have a slight curve. They provide stability, enable you to cut steps in hard snow or test the depth of a snow drift. A curved or technical shaft axe will still do these things albeit not as well but will be better suited to steep skiing terrain, ice and mixed climbing. Classic mountaineering Most adventurers need an ice axe for summiting a snow-covered peak. Sep 29, 2013 · Ice Axes come in many shapes and sizes. Ice axes are an essential safety tool for travelling through winter mountains. And in steeper winter mountaineering routes Dec 25, 2024 · The ice axe is an essential tool in the winter mountains, and this guide will help you with choosing between the many different types. Breaking down an Ice Axe Knowing all the parts of an ice axe is a good first step to buying one: The Head: Composed of the pick, a carabiner hole, and an adze (or a hammer). Choosing the right type of ice axe can make the difference between a successful ascent and a dangerous one, so it is essential to understand the characteristics and applications of each type. This could be either rubber, machined grooves, or a textured grip. thxjcugezcgesuprqbbquuedixolbepiuqibsxjpzywhoen