Ice axe too short. Ice axe 1 – pick 2 .

Ice axe too short So even though I did some easy snowshoe trips, I still have a lot to learn. com May 11, 2012 · I'm a beginner climber (trying to bump up from hiking) and I bought an ice axe but I think it might be too short. a 100cm axe would be too short for the walk in and too long Oct 1, 2021 · One stipulation: avoid purchasing an ice axe that is too short (less than 60 centimeters) because that may place the spike in the proximity of your vital organs when you are executing a self-arrest. Ice axe 1 – pick 2 Feb 10, 2019 · It's ultra lightweight, short, and very ski-centric. Mountaineering Ice Axes: These are straight-shafted, lightweight tools used mainly for glacier travel, self-arrest, and moderate snow Again, an ice axe that’s too short can be super awkward. Both are too long when collasped and not long enough at full extension and the Stubai has an alloy pick Dec 31, 2016 · Next year I'll be taking an ice axe with me and your tips have been noted & stored for future use. 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). Front points rubber protector nice, and they fit the boots well too. Although I really like the newer Cobras, the Prophets climb so well it seems like too much to spring the change needed to buy a set of the newer axes. The entire valley knows as Masherbrum people, where contain 9 plus villages. Ice axe too short? I’m 5’9” and bought a petzl ride (45cm) in anticipation of climbing some of the PNW volcanoes (Hood, Adams, St Helens). First, rock climbs in Rocky Mountain National Park or the Bugaboos where I have spent some time often require traveling over some snow and ice, but many sections are so easy people rarely bring a one pound (. I am 6’2” and the axe feels very small compared to the rest of my body. Oct 7, 2009 · Whaddya think? I have a raven ice axe that is a bit too long for what I want. Both were not what I wanted in an ice axe pole. Steep to Vertical Terrain. I have three ice axes including the sum'tec and two ice tools for vertical ice climbing. There are two main pick shapes available for ski axes. So I use a 50cm axe a lot. Also, the pick is fixed, so if the axe gets heavy use, that’s it. However, I think the more likely length would be 70cm. Once you have the type of axe worked out, focus on getting the length right. I want to be able to use it also for hiking on flat ground as well as going up hill. I just started ice climbing and I have ice tools so a super technical one is not necessary. Jun 10, 2019 · Generally, hybrid axes are sized between 50-59cm, with a preference toward being too short rather than too long. T . I like the idea of a shorter ice axe but am wondering if 45cm is just a bit too short. why not remove the tip and re-glue it on at a shorter length? i assume loctite metal adhesive is what is being used here. If your ice axe is too long on the other hand, it could prove unhelpful for use in self-arrest. However, the RIDE’s head has some big lightening holes and looks thin in spots – makes me wonder if it would bend on ice. But if you can do that it becomes a do-everything axe, until you need a reverse a pick, keeping For most outdoor enthusiasts, choosing an ice axe doesn’t need to get too complicated. 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. Differences in ice axes are pretty minor, and they are going to accomplish the same tasks. I plan on doing the Kautz route this year, unguided. 9; Anodized aluminum shaft There are different tools for different jobs. QUESTION: I am 6’5” tall and all ice axes I have been reading up on “seem” to be too short for me. An ice axe that's too long or too short can make it more difficult to maneuver on steep slopes or steeper terrain. an ice tool tends to be too short for self-belay. Any longer would be too long on terrain steep enough to need an ice axe. what am I missing? I would not violate the head to shaft bond. 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. For less steep terrain I like a shorter ice axe with a curved handle. I have added the Slider accessory to the ice ax since the handle is slippery for plunging. 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. S. The whippet takes the place of the long axe, but is lighter and more useful and comfortable in general. Ice Axes: Black Diamond Raven- Decent axe. You really can’t go too long for that use, but you can definitely go too short. However, I would look at the 50cm options first. I was using an older BD 75 and replaced it with a Camp Corsa Nanotech 50cm. As AA Grapsas commented, it also depends on the type of climbing. For walkers I think axes that reach the ankle bone when held at the side are best as these can be used for support on gentle slopes without having to stoop, and are easier to thrust into the snow below you during descents. 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 uphill hand. According to the old advice, all of his ice axes are at least 10cm too short! Why keep an ice axe short? On steep terrain, a longer ice axe puts the climber’s hand See full list on outdoorgearlab. I've never owned an ice axe. However, I have seen that some of them have a slight curvature and some don't. I believe that 65cm would be too short. 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. They were the mainstay of my ice climbing for a full decade. I too am undecided as to what tools I'll bring but I know the sum'tec will be one of them. 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, ice, or frozen conditions. , Petzl Ride) are designed to be carried inside most packs. Finally, finding a classic mountaineering axe that feels good in your hands and that you're comfortable using is essential. The whole 'winter recreation' thing is really something I started back in January of this year. Have a chat with someone experienced in this area if you’re unsure. 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. 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 The idea for this very niche ice axe is driven by three different but related scenarios. Reply reply Top 1% Rank by size May 1, 2025 · Understanding the Types of Ice Axes. Axes less than 60cm are generally for technical ice climbing and are best used for very steep or vertical slopes. 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. it would make a great hiking axe at my height, but for skiing its about 5cm too long. Ice axe plus ski pole is great. Of all the tools a mountaineer carries, the ice axe is perhaps the most iconic. Mar 16, 2019 · I'm thinking about getting one of those SMCsI found the 90 cm ice axe just a hair too small to really use. Ice axe 1 – pick 2 An ice axe that is too long can be cumbersome and difficult to handle on steep slopes, while one that is too short may not provide adequate support. For flatter ground, where consequences of a slip are not large Mar 16, 2025 · Alex Roddie tested these ice axes on a range of day routes and short backpacking trips throughout the Cairngorms and West Highlands, including a real mix of terrain – typical easier winter walking all the way up to Grade I gullies and easy mixed ridges. 5 to 26; Weight (ounces): 14 to 15. A 60cm or better yet a 70cm axe will get the job done. Petzl Summit Evo. Basically what feels correct is a function of your own strength. A CAMP Corsa is a light wt light duty rarity just in case ice axe. You need an axe that fits you. Walking steep where you need it with an 80cm axe will be like stocking the top of a shelf. 45cm is less than ideal for self arrest, but it’s workable. e. Sep 26, 2023 · Ice axe anatomy Pick: The “blade” of the axe, used to swing into ice or during a self-arrest maneuver. The B-D Black Prophets in the center are my current set of tools. For example, if you are into steep mountaineering, a long walking axe is not the best idea. There may be reasons to go for a longer axe, such as if you will be using it to build anchors. Too long will be too heavy and too much axe to swing, but too short will have you stooped over while swinging. 45cm is a reasonably comfortably length on steep snow in cane position, although holding power for self belay is Nov 27, 2009 · Self arrest is stopping a fall on snow and ice by using a well rehearsed technique of using the ice axe between your body and the ice and slowing then stopping a slide. Try several in the hand if possible: the head and grip of some are more comfortable to hold than others. Jul 11, 2016 · The Petzl RIDE is only one ounce heavier than the CAMP Corsa but it has an all-steel head. 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 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, ice, or frozen conditions. Ice axe 1 – pick 2 Apr 27, 2012 · This works well but I still wanted a fully functional ice axe and a pole combined in one tool. Mar 15, 2012 · Its main use will be for crossing steep snowfields in the Sierra. These axes are designed for ice climbing near vertical faces. For gentle terrain, an ice axe that's long enough to reach the ground without too much slouching is best. [ 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 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. It is always taught in any winter skills course and the same technique is used all over the world. Oct 26, 2008 · Heel and toe bails are more flexy and will hug the boots nicely. Thank-you for the speedy replies so far. Ice axe review Jan 17, 2024 · For ice climbing, the weight of the head and pick can actually help enhance your swing, but if the pick and axe are too heavy, they will tire out your arm more quickly. 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. At $120, not fully satisfied they would be worth the extra $$ compared to the CAMP. It will perform when you need it too, but it is a backup 4 days ago · Best All-Around Ice Axe 1. Before learning how to use an ice axe, you need to choose the right type for your climb. To choose an ice axe, you will first need a clear idea of what terrain you will mostly be on. I tend to choose what tool by what pack I will be using and if I am willing to carry the axe on the outside of the pack or want it inside or dangling off my harness. Hushe valley the last road end village. tag:snake search within a tag. Start by working out whether you need a classic mountaineering ice axe or a technical axe tool. It is still too short. They can be wielded to break the ice, lighten the mood, or punctuate a humorous anecdote. Overview. Shop crampons, ice axes, ice screws, pick axes & more ice tools today. Oct 1, 2018 · In all my retail experience selling ice axes, I generally tell people not too worry to much. Oct 2, 2020 · Measured from the tip of the axe to the top of the head, ice axe size is important. For reference I'm 6' and use a 55cm axe. user:xxxx search by author id Jan 20, 2023 · Unlike the antique alpenstock, modern mountain axes are too short to be used as a walking stick. I swapped to the sumtec from my BD Raven which is a very nice ergonomically old school axe because the pick didn’t really work for actual ice. The Prophets are the best ice tools I have ever owned. Consider one with a rather technical pick. This is just too short to be used as a walking stick on level ground (the way its forebear, the 150-centimetre-long (5 ft) 19th century alpenstock, was), but is ergonomic when ascending steep slopes. The shining wall of Masherbum (7821m) located in Hushe valley. My second tool will be a Cassin X-dream, my only second thought is to actually bring both x-dreams AND the sum'tec. For a tree like JDog it would be way too short if not used on a hill. Whether you’re cracking jokes around a campfire, engaging in witty banter with friends, or spicing up a dull moment, axe puns provide a powerful arsenal of humor to draw upon. Ice axes come in two broad categories: mountaineering axes and technical ice tools. I don’t know what length will fit in your pack, but the 45cm ice axes without steel spikes (i. I’m used to my REI one which is super long and classified as a “mountain axe. With that said, I did have a few little things in mind when I was purchasing my axe. Ice-axe spike-to-head lengths used to generally range from 60–90 cm (24–35 in). Dec 25, 2024 · Choosing an ice axe. Amazon price ; Best for classic mountaineering; Length (inches): 20. ” Jan 14, 2022 · 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. I've read varying opinions -- it should reach your ankle, it should reach the ground, choose based on your height, etc. My Recommendations Based on my experiences, for general mountaineering, an axe length of 60-70 cm works well for average heights, and if you're taller something in the 70-75 cm range will probably suit you better. 50s are generally too short. I realize I can't predict the conditions yet, but I'd rather have an Ice Axe and know how to use it now rather than, be ill-prepared and suffer a learning curve much worse then spending ~100 on an ice axe, which I don't use. I find ice axes shorter than 50 cm more difficult to self arrest with, so I wouldn’t recommend going shorter than 50 cm for most people. My previous ice axe had been an older DMM Cirque 59 centimeter. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Technical ice tools are pretty great for climbing steep technical ice but suck for just about anything else. No swapping parts. I'm 5'3 so almost all guides I've read say that I should have a 60cm or less axe. May 24, 2009 · “Place the ice axe across your body with the spike on the slope and the shaft as near as possible to the horizontal” (italics mine) is the good advice in one book7. For going down hill the 90 cm is definitely too short. The size is perfect for me. I'm wondering: when do you all consider bringing something like an ice axe along on winter trips? Aug 12, 2022 · An axe that’s too short will throw you off balance when you push the spike into the snow, or cut steps, while an axe that’s too long will be difficult for you to plunge into the snow, especially on steeper slopes. A near horizontal shaft pressed down on the slope offers a stabilising levered force capable of being varied constantly in response to our movement, to the buffeting from wind, and to the varying stability of our footing. When getting into very steep or vertical terrain, the route may require the use of two axes – generally one hybrid axe, and one ice tool; or potentially two ice tools for truly vertical terrain and beyond. Nov 5, 2010 · If you measure the entire length of the ice axe (not just the length of the shaft), the very longest that you would want is about 75cm. So, choosing the right ice axe length is important, but the good news is, it’s also quite easy. On a CDT SOBO with a June 23 start date having previous experience as a mountaineer, climber, peak bagger, and plenty of experience as a winter backpacker on snow, I chose not to start at Waterton taking the Highline Tr without full instep crampons and two real ice axes. Buy an axe that is too heavy and you will get pumped half-way up a pitch; buy one that is too light and you will curse as it bounces off hard ice! Needless to say it is rather difficult to do this over the internet 'T' & 'B' Ratings: Ice axes are either 'T' or 'B' Rated. 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. I can still swing it but it's not too short to use as a cane. Climbers usually prefer shorter axes. It is advisable to try different sizes and styles, and consult with experts or guides to select the ice axe that best suits your specific needs and the conditions in which you will be operating. Petzl gully or Sumtec. A great example of a modern mountain axe would be the Raven Ice Axe with GripThe other group of ice axes is the ice tool. Jan 14, 2017 · Too short is generally better than too long. For example, one of our guides is 6’1″ (185cm) and their longest ice axe is 60 cm. His most frequently used ice axe is 56cm, and he even uses a 45cm ice axe for ski objectives. Masherbrum also known as K1 world 22nd highest mountain. 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. There's also a dredgable piece of Refined Metal that is very precious if you're doing a "No research, no shopping" run as it unlocks the T3 hull without the risk you take trying to get the dredgable one in Devil's Spine (very dodgy cos whilst you have Banish and Manifest to use, your boat hull is an absolute potato). Jan 3, 2019 · The correct length for an ice axe is debatable. Why you might need a longer ice axe Explore Black Diamond's ice & alpine climbing equipment for your next mountain adventure. 70cm feels too small and 75 almost too long for me at 6'1" (lanky and long arms too). Feb 16, 2025 · The beauty of axe puns lies in their versatility. The only combos I know of are the Petzl snowscopic and the Stubai tour lite trekking pole ice axe. 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). I'm a little taller, so I extrapolated that from my own ice axes, which are WOOD-SHAFTED! an ice axe is used more for self-belay than for self-arrest, things are already going badly if you need to self-arrest. The suggested sizing is if you hold it in your hand and let it hang from your side, it should reach to between the bottom of your calf and your ankle. The Sum'tec is the brainchild of the late Ueli Steck (along This is to say that I will be using an ice axe for both climbing steep slopes and as a hiking pole. Take a rather short axe especially for skimo. answers:0 unanswered questions. 5 kg) 2 foot long (60 cm) ice axe because it would be a hassle sticking out of their backpacks, so May 13, 2014 · A 43cm shaft won't get much done in soft snow. it’s a short ice axe I purchased a new ice axe about a month ago and selected the length based on my experience last year with my old axe and some of the posts I searched for here on the forums. 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. yolw lneq icogt ivugqz vxfp vyniud cyti jqk zhdlcep gvtdgl