Performance models for difficult snow ice and mixed climbs.
Ice axe sizing chart.
Performance ice axes with forged head and excellent anchoring qualities adapted to the multitude of configurations of alpine terrain.
Axes used for technical ice climbing are actually called ice tools rather than ice axes.
This method can be adjusted a few inches longer or shorter to compensate for personal taste.
Parts of an ice axe.
Avoid getting an axe longer than 70cm unless you re tall enough to measure out as needing an axe that size.
The ice axe for many is a mountaineering symbol that evokes images of rugged glaciated peaks and above the cloud summits it s an essential safety tool for mountaineering adventures whether you use it to maintain balance or to self arrest and stop yourself from a fall.
The general rule of sizing an ice axe for general or traditional mountaineering says that the spike of the axe should reach your ankle when you hold the head of the axe in your hand alongside your body.
For steep mountaineering the above is absolutely true.
Technical mountaineering ice axes.
Ice axe size by j4ever sun sep 25 2011 8 12 am 13 replies 12947 views last post by lcarreau tue sep 27 2011 8 56 pm size difference between ice axe and hammer.
Hybrid ice axes are more aggressive than a traditional mountaineering axe yet less technical than an ice tool.
When you shop for an ice axe you ll need to know its basic components.
They feature a curved shaft a rubber grip or hand rest and a reverse curve pick.
Remember that the ice axe is not a walking stick it is a tool for cutting steps in ice and saving your life during a fall.
A longer axe though can be unwieldy to use during self arrest because the spike can catch in the snow and send you and your axe flying.
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.
Long ice axes will get in the way of both of these things.
In this method of ice axe sizing you will stand up straight and allow the ice axe to hang from your hand.
However personal preference and the slopes you expect to typically encounter may shorten the length.
The biggest difference between the two.
The petzl sum tec is a best mountaineering ice axe that is a bit pricey but comes with a slider for a leash a pick that is good for ice climbing and an adze great for chopping.
The grivel air tech evolution ice axe is cheaper and lighter comes with a leash and is durable and sturdy for solid anchors on alpine ascents yet performs well on steep climbs.
With the flat of the handle resting against your palm the head of the ice axe should reach the middle of your ankle.
The biggest reason for the short length is dexterity at steep grades and during a self arrest.
