Best grivel ice axe reddit. Epic routes and classic WI5's were put up by badass climbers with leashed tools for decades. 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. Solid hardware, second best headlamps (behind Petzl), and I’ve never had an issue with crampons or ice axes from them. The insulated, removable blade cover was a game-changer—no more cold The Grivel GZERO Ice Axe is a popular choice for climbers who value lightweight gear without sacrificing performance. I bought the Grivel Air Tech Evo off Craigslist for $75 practically new. This is to say that I will be using an ice axe for both climbing steep slopes and as a hiking pole. Available in Europe (per pair): Petzl Nomic €370 DMM Switch €450 Grivel Tech Machine €440-460 BD Reactor €460 BD Fuel €430-480 Camp X-dream Alpine €440-480 Petzl Ergonomic €500-560 Nomic are Sep 16, 2017 · Alex Roddie tests out an ultralight ice axe in the Alps This is Grivel’s lightest ice axe with a steel pick, aimed at ski mountaineers and ultralight backpackers. I am looking into buying a Petzl Summit Evo for starters, but as I am looking to climbing a bit steeper routes and ravines in a year or two once I get enough Apologies if this has been asked before, couldn’t find any posts. I’m looking at some different options for crampons and ice axes and wondered what you’re all using and why. Jul 21, 2019 · 2000 Grivel is the oldest living manufacturer and it feels the responsibility of preserving this tradition. Feb 14, 2024 · The best icy outdoor adventures demand the best ice axes. It self arrests well, plunges well, daggers well, and sticks well when you swing it. I will use them for indoor/outdoor drytool, steeper ice and mix. Most resources for ice axes focus on general mountaineering. Except the extra rubber at the end. Oct 26, 2017 · Searching for best ice axe? See the top-rated snow axes of 2024, pros, cons, features, plus all you need to know about the best options available now! Moved PermanentlyThe document has moved here. We are mostly summer aplninists/climber, but e have been dabbling little bit in ice and mixed climbing (on the lower scale obviously) and ski alpinism. I wouldn't get an all rounder like the Quark if you're primarily dry tooling, you'll end up replacing them as soon as you try some proper technical tools. Curved Ice Axe Hello everyone, this is going to be my first season ice climbing and I am deciding on which ice axes to get. Roped mountaineering, a T rated shaft and slight curve with some grip is ideal - something that you can arrest, rescue and do light climbing with. This year i want to take a glacier training course and also do some winter hiking Jan 10, 2019 · This review focuses on very lightweight mountaineering axes, the type of axe you'd want for ski mountaineering, approaching alpine rock routes, etc. Our expert Leashes: Yay or Nay? I have heard mixed opinions about having a leash on your ice axe (we're talking general mountaineering ice axes, not ice tools for ice climbing). In this update, we select 17 of the current market's best to hack away at waterfalls, chop steps, and practice our self-arrest techniques. Broadly speaking, axe price correlates with the technical level of the [terrain]. I honestly find that everything i could accomplish with trash like camp corsa i could (and have) accomplish with trekking poles and save that weight entirely. The Lightweight Grivel GZERO Ice Axe 74 for Classical Alpinism stood out because it’s I'm looking to get a great gift for my girlfriend, a fellow camper, climber, and outdoor enthusiast. I’ve tested several options in real conditions—some felt too heavy, others lacked grip or durability. Simple way: with your boots on hold the axe by the shaft as you were swinging it one handed. A traditional shaped ice axe head might be better for self-arrest. Mountaineering ice axe, ideal for glacier walking and easy climbs. Looking for ice axes for my kids. 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. If you're tall go for a longer one. And because we know how important it is to invest in quality gear for dangerous sports like ice climbing, we here at The Adventure Junkies have compiled a list of the ten best ice axes to make your selection a little easier. Grivel seems to be more as a knock off historical one (although one is rated) while furnace seems to be more legit. Aluminium ice axes without spike are dangerous garbage and fit only for moderately compacted spring snowpack and low elevations. Is it possible to buy an axe which would be suitable for both these activities? Or would I be better off buying separate axes for the two? Currently looking at BD Raven Pro or a Grivel G1, but unsure if these Dark Machines are quite a bit more expensive and Grivel doesnt seem to have the best distribution network in the US, so finding spare hardware may be a PITA. comments sorted by Best Top New Controversial Q&A Add a Comment arson51 • Additional comment actions strongly recommend climbing steep snow with elastic umbilical cords tethered to you harness. If you're very sure you're not going down that path (or if you just want to have a regular pair also, which isn't bad), you're fairly safe with something well tested like Grivel G12 crampons. Which as far as I know makes it a totally generic basic ice axe. However, wanting to know how they will do for general mountaineering? Mostly the crampons as I also just got a used mountaineering axe. I'm looking for more technical ice axes and I can't decide. What you see is what you get. black diamond, petzl, and grivel all make a variation on this product. I intend on climbing Whitney this year and I need to pick up an ice axe so I can practice with it before the hike, my eye caught the Venom Ice Axe from Black Diamond, I prefer Black Diamond since I get a discount there, but does anyone have any recommendations? or will the Venom be a good axe for what Anyone used one of these tools? I was looking for a second tool for steep snow and moderate alpine ice to compliment my walking axe in the cascades. I am deciding between Singing Rock Bandit 2, ~€150/piece Grivel North Machine, ~€160/piece Hello, I currently own a pair of Quarks for ice and a simpler mix. I'm considering an ice axe with a bent shaft, like the Petzl Sumtec or Grivel Quantum Light. Get it for mountaineering, knowing that it’s more capable than a traditional axe and can also climb gullies, couloirs, and mixed ice and snow better than a basic axe. I am basically just trying to do some not so gnarly backcountry skiing/mountaineering so I don't need the most premium stuff (although obviously I want it to be very good). Newer tools are just nicer. Granted, my snow gear sees less use than I’d like. The UKC team looks at high performing ice axes from top brands such as Petzl, DMM, Black Diamond, Grivel and Edelrid. I’m typically never winter climbing, and summiting during the March - Sept mountaineering season. Full winter conditions in the hills and mountains present an added challenge for even the most experienced hill walker or mountaineer. I want to buy my first crampons and ice axe, and obviously I want them to be as versatile as possible. Would be willing to climb just about anything shy of vertical ice with it, and even short pitches of ice haven't been a problem. They're a little heavier, but otherwise good products. Sumtec seems completely overkill if you don't want to get 1 hybrid axe now Performance versatile ice axe for mountaineering, now a "classic" in its category. This 66cm axe is designed for classical alpinism, meaning it’s perfect for mountaineering and ice climbing where a balance of weight and strength is key. Generally basic ice axes sell for ~$100 new at retail, but anybody who cared about saving money could easily find one in the $70 range on sale. Mono vs dual point ; ice axes Just getting into ice climbing this season after about 5 years of trad/mountaineering experience and starting to purchase some gear. Most routes involve a lot more trekking where ski poles are handy and you only need an ice axe when the terrain gets steeper. There is some overlap between technical axes (like the north machine or quark for example) and ice climbing, but if you'll still end up with something not good most of the time, having the right tool for the job makes a huge difference. Also prioritize weight. It’s sleek, black design is both stylish and functional. Any part of the tool from the pick, adze, hammer and shaft can and will be hooked, twisted and jammed into iced-up rock to aid upward progress, and in such an environment all but the burliest models will come unstuck. If you are in the market for some technical tools, this is the review for you. I live pretty far from anywhere I can rent gear so have been trying to get my own together on a relatively small budget. A 70cm axe is the traditional sizing for that height and those axes have climbed many peaks. As such, don’t fall into the trap of getting a “cane”. The thing that they do really well is the quality of steel which is superior to anything else. The G-bone shaft with lateral grooves allows greater resistance with a lower thic Dec 8, 2022 · A classic straight-shafted axe, the Grivel G-Zero has a plastic head cover that feels extremely comfortable in the hand, making it a great basic hillwalking axe I've known some people who got into ice climbing pretty fast after being introduced to this, and regretted buying regular crampons and ice axe. The G-bone shaft with lateral grooves allows greater resistance with a lower thic Hello, i am looking to buy pair of technical ice axes (i already have one from CT for alpinism) and between me and my partner we have one pair of Nomic from Peztl and we are looking to buy second pair. The pick is real sharp and up to the task for mellow ice. As I have never been in the higher mountains in the winter before, this will be my first experience with snow and more technical routes. Grivel Jorasses axe Thinking of buying a straight ice axe (for better anchoring performance than my current slightly curved glacier axe) and the technical blade on this one looks interesting. I know that dirt and rocks will probably dull the ice axe. For dry tooling you really want a technical axe (Petzl Nomic/Grivel Tech Machine/DMM Switch) which run to about 370 ish a pair. I see a good deal on Petzl Glaciers, however, it seems that curved ice axes are preferred. The other is in a local exhibition about an expedition to Monts Elbrus and Ushba in 1968. I've used mine on everything from gentle slopes where I just wanted an axe for self arrest to climbing out of crevasses (with a second tool). ), while other climbers I've met swear by We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. People call them We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Classical ice axe, with simple steel blade and adze, with removable plastic cover for comfort and thermal protection. Second time this week I see ice axes of Grivel of that age. I've swung both and I preferred the X-Dreams, especially on pure WI. For more technical mountaineering something May 18, 2015 · The Grivel G1 is a solid, well-designed ice axe that is made of high-quality materials for a sweet price tag. Seems everyone loves them for their versatility. Some are applicable to hikers, some are not. Until now. Choose an axe for your intended level of use [and within your ability] i. Feb 16, 2018 · Whether it's for Scottish mixed, Continental ice or drytooling, a pair of technical axes are your key weapons. Grivel/BD doesn't matter. Anyone have any leads? comments sorted by Best Top New Controversial Q&A Add a Comment Akski • Additional comment actions Hello. DMM Fly pair deal for £255 is a good all rounder for general mountain use. Its 425 grams felt almost weightless, making long ascents much easier, and the neutral pick with ergonomic design truly boosted comfort during extended use. I know there isn't the perfect allround model but i still have to start somewhere. With the Switch, DMM have created a tool that shares a similar geometry with well-established axes such as the Ice axe leash recommendations? [UK] Looking at updating to a 'spinner' leash suitable for two ice tools. I have the Petzl Would this concern be obviated by noting that ice clipper slots on a harness aren't strength rated? The Grivel Carryabiner seems like it would be absurdly expensive as a leaver biner (as compared to every other non-locking biner on the market), but perhaps it has some added utility? Oct 2, 2020 · A strong and stable ice axe is a must in these types of situations. So my question is, what are your I made a post recently asking for advice on bent shaft axes. Aug 29, 2024 · Grivel’s Ghost range is well established, in fact we reviewed the Ghost axe back in 2018 as part of a winter running article. Available in Europe (per pair): Petzl Nomic €370 DMM Switch €450 Grivel Tech Machine €440-460 BD Reactor €460 BD Fuel €430-480 Camp X-dream Alpine €440-480 Petzl Ergonomic €500-560 Nomic are Furnace and grivel both make ice tools and axes with wooden shafts that are rated. And yes, it's perfectly fine for glacier travel. Edit: Charles Moser ice axes and 10 point Salewa ice climbing crampons. Any recommendations? Based in the UK! Will primarily be using for mixed and winter climbing. I think the best thing you can do is practice, practice, practice. The Air Tech Evo excels at nearly every mountaineering activity and will stand up to even the most demanding users. Anyone have any experience of the original Grivel monsters? I've found some for sale nearby at a good price, but not found much about them Choosing the right axes for ice climbing is essential for a safe and successful ascent. In this comparison review seven models go head to head. It's cheaper, lighter, and literally the same shaft and pick as the Evo. Others liked the BD Venom and Petzl Sumtec. Jul 25, 2025 · As winter approaches and ice climbs get more serious, having a dependable ice switch axe makes all the difference. So far i did a lot of hiking, ferratas (D) and easy climbing (UIAA 1-2, without rope) around 2500m in the austrian alps. If your budget is definitely 300, I'd I have a pair of nomics that I've used for pure ice for the last few years, but I recently moved to Colorado and I'm interested in doing moderate ice/mixed lines in RMNP (think Martha, Dreamweaver, Notch Couloir etc) as well as occasional trips to the PNW for moderate glaciated routes like the North Ridge of Mt Baker or the Reid Glacier Headwall on Mt. Reviews, ratings, and price comparisons covering 10+ ice tools. If you truly need an ice axe then carry an ice axe (the petzl gully is the perfect ski mountaineering axe). You could get lighter aluminum crampons and a smaller axe if you want, but later down the line you'll need something heavier for big climbs. It is equipped with an adjustable leash with a rubber tip. What We Like: Its lightweight design reduces fatigue on long Jul 25, 2025 · The engineering behind the Lightweight Grivel GZERO Ice Axe 74 for Alpinism Black represents a genuine breakthrough because its head combines maximum strength Oct 21, 2024 · The best ice axe for winter hiking and backpacking 2025 including Lightweight Hiking Ice Axe from Petzl, Black Diamond, Grivel, and more. An ice axe should mostly be used similar to a trekking pole when climbing ice/snow, as an extra sturdy point of contact with the mountain. They're aluminium shafts with sharp bits on the end. With a simple steel steel head and aluminium shaft, both straight without and curve, it is ideal for winter walking. Hood. I'm curious what tools people like Grivel G12 and Petzl Summit. And a classic straight ice axe will always be better for glacier travel and self arrest. e. I already have a Camp Neve ice axe that I've used for less demanding tours over the last ten years. I am currently in the process of buying winter mountaineering boots, crampons and ice axe. Thanks! Share Sort by: Best Open comment sort options Best Top New Controversial Old Q&A Add a Comment berryjewse • Jul 25, 2025 · Before testing this Lightweight Grivel GZERO Ice Axe 74 for Alpinism Black, I never realized how much a heavy or poorly designed axe could slow me down on tough climbs. Winter hiking will need only light and simple. But they're caving/ spelunking with no ice in sight. Edit: preference of Ice Axe Going down the route of alpine axes your choices really are: Quark - best overall axe IMO Apex - heaver weight, good for bigger guys Viper - BD version of Quark Cobra (Carbon Viper) - Excellent swing due to extremely low weight Grivel Light Machine - Over engineered very top heavy Riot - Good swing, too much head vibration Quick question. Petzl Glacier vs. Mar 16, 2025 · Our expert gear testing team gets to the point reviewing the best ice axes, an essential tool for managing risk in snowy mountains. Does anyone have suggestions for a good starting ice axe and crampons? Not for anything crazy just trying to get more mountaineering under my belt. Currently walk and scramble in winter, looking to move on to steeper ground ‎Potentially would like to give ice climbing a go in the future. Can i cut it off? Share Sort by: Best Open comment sort options Top New Controversial Old Q&A Add a Comment hostedenis • You might end up getting an ice axe and a Whippet eventually anyway. I seem to remember Grivel made one of these a some years ago, but can't find one anywhere on the Internet. It's an okay option for steeper routes but doesn't perform as well as many of the other ice axes we tested with more aggressive picks and Im currently watching the descent and saw they have ice axes. The other specimen had a very notorious Devanagari blessing in the shaft since 1973, instead of the already translated inscription in French on the current piece. Maybe someone more experienced can chime in as well, but what kind of steep snow do you anticipate climbing with two straight shaft ice axes? One thing to keep in mind is that your ice axe will most likely be on your backpack more than your hand. May 1, 2025 · Explore the top ice axes for ice climbing, with expert recommendations on the best tools for performance, safety, and durability. classical mountaineering technical mountaineering glacier walking ice climbing dry tooling iconic ski touring They're large, heavy and cumbersome. What I've seen so far: Black Diamond Spinner Leash Blue Ice Hydra Leash DMM Freedom Leash classical mountaineering dry tooling glacier walking ice climbing iconic ski touring technical mountaineering For beginner-oriented adventures, you could go with something like the Petzl Glacier or Summit if you want to spend a bit more. Start your journey today! Independent ice tool reviews by real outdoors people. That said, you probably want something sturdy and with a bit of a curve to it. The Grivel G Zero axe is a classic shaped ice axe with some modern additions. The important thing is size. comments sorted by Best I generally use a Grivel G1 Ice Axe for alpine routes and Petzl Nomics for vertical ice. Starting at only 264g (48cm version), it’s seriously light – yet its carbon steel pick makes it usable in a wider range of mountain scenarios than competing products made entirely from aluminium. but can you use it in situations like this and in summertime with no snow? thanks so much. Get an ice axe that goes to around the bottom of your calf. Hello everyone! I'm currently looking into getting my first ice axe that fits my future endeavours best. Get a hot forged head with a good pick and an effective adze. I am looking into getting some crampons and ice axes for this winter, and I am wondering what to go with. I can’t find Grivel lil monsters anywhere. The G1 was above average in nearly every one of our comparison categories and is a fantastic option for general mountaineering applications. It’s just a basic rundown of features and what to look for if you’re new to Jan 17, 2024 · If you’re climbing or mountaineering, having the right tools is necessary for your success and safety. Grivel tools are good but I find the axes slightly less refined than the equivalent Petzl. As you can see the hand rest is very narrow and does not protect the hand. I have an old Grivel axe. Let your arm go straight next to your legs, the pick/adze will be around your Achilles' tendon/upper heel. Here are the best ice axes for your next adventure. I like the Grivel Air Tech Evo, which is like a spendier / more ergonomic version of a BD Venom or Petzl Summit. I started a couple years ago and did all the research and reviews and asked questions. Does anyone have any other suggestions for axes that would work similar to those Grivels? Feb 2, 2021 · Scottish-style mixed climbing makes great demands on ice axes. They do have slightly different jobs and strengths, but it does fit the bill as primarily a self arrest device for cardio activities better than a standard ice axe. I Working in the industry before, I was impressed with Grivel ice axes however I wonder if the reduction in weight for the Carbon fiber significantly compromises on the swing etc. The practical grip and the aluminum shaft make it easy t 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. For the crampons, I am undecided on these (using petzl but can be similar of another brand) Vasak Sarken Lynx I would use them on easier stuff, but might eventually try steeper terrain - though very unlikely ice climbing for a few years, and if I reach that point, I can buy more technical Jan 28, 2022 · Over the last 10 years, we've tested over 21 of the best ice axes on the market. But I've never ice climbed before, for example, so I never had the need for anything more. Then you'll be the one stuck trying to sell old axes to make some of your money back. Ninety percent of what you do these will be appropriate. If you don't think you need an axe for the up and just want added security for a steep descent then the newer removable whippets are nice. i use the grivel one because i like the mini locking biners. Are they capable of climbing that sort of terrain? Yes, but actually tools are better. Sure, you can climb with those. Jan 28, 2019 · The Grivel Air Tech Evolution is one of the best mountaineering axes currently available. Grivel have 200 years of Hey guys, I was wondering if anyone has any recommendations for ice axes for mountaineering. Jan 31, 2022 · Grivel G1 Plus: first impressions The Grivel G1 Plus is perhaps the most classical ice axe we reviewed for our best ice axe buying guide. Really you are splitting hairs though and for what you are doing, you can make almost anything work just fine. Hey, I'm looking to buy my first ice axe. How important is it to have curved ice tools? Is it possible to climb with glaciers comfortably? Thanks in advance! If you don't plan technical ice climbing, get the regular Summit. From my experience, a good ice axe needs to balance weight, strength, and comfort. I want an ice axe with a wood handle (like the Grivel Monte Bianco), and then I would like to have the handle engraved with her initials, a quote, and a couple symbols. But it also takes advantage of the Italian brand’s long and well-established manufacturing expertise, boasting a one-piece hot-forged head. They have a pick, an adze and a handle. BD's Raven/Raven Pro are classic axes geared towards less technical use, and are very affordable. Moderate stuff, you'll be plunging the end 90% of the time, so plain aluminum is actually better. climbing without a leash attached to your wrist lets you quickly swap hands on a tool or go hands-free, the elastic means I just bought a set of used ice climbing axes/crampons just because Ice Climbing is what I have more of in the Midwest. After years of renting, I’m finally ready to purchase my own ice axe for summits in the area (Adams, Hood, Helens, Rainier). Its traditional looks make it one for the purists. Consider a beefier second tool at some point with a hammer. They have moderately curved shafts and a classic handle which allows them to be used both with leashes and without. The standard Ghost has been joined by a hammer version as well as… 2 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. Wood is comfortable to hold, it is warm and it smells like the woods. Reply reply More repliesMore repliesMore repliesMore replies AdventurerGuy • Hello, I currently own a pair of Quarks for ice and a simpler mix. Can anybody direct me toward a company or individual who could help me do all this, or at least make a plain wood handeled axe Has anyone tried to use the petzl finger rest to any other “non” Petzl ice axes? Do you use other products? For reference I've used these tools so far BD reactors (pricey asf) PZL nomics DMM switch (grip was way too big even for medium gauntlets) Currently have employee discount on grivel ice axes but haven't heard great things about the handles on the tech machines Just wondering if you lot had any advice what would be a prime choice for the money?. I have Black Diamond Prime Ski boots if that changes things for the crampons. Reply reply panicproduct • BD rock hardware is great, but their snow / ice climbing equipment doesn't come close to the quality or design of Petzl, Grivel, and Blue Ice. Ice axe capable of providing a truly excellent performance. A few guides I've met have said leashes can do more harm than good (discouraging you from moving the axe from one hand to the other, etc. The steel blade hot-forged in one-piece makes it light, balanced and solid. In fact, in the United States and Canada, this is one of only three ice axes that you'll see 90+ percent of mountain guides use. However, with so many brands in the market, it can be hard to find which will best suit your needs. But don’t plan on buying a second one in an effort to use it for climbing that would require two tools. The bent shaft is nice on the knuckles when daggering in couloirs. Grivel monsters (original) I did a few days ice climbing last winter and got hooked. I prefer the Grivel G1, has a stamped head and has rivets to hold everything together. This isn’t meant to be a comprehensive review of individual ice axes or technique. As everyone starts to gear up for thru hikes and early season snow travel, I thought I’d write an overview on ice axes. I'm interested in an axe with a bent shaft thinking that it could be used for both walking and climbing. We look at both straight and curve shaft options with a wide variety of uses, including technical, vertical ice climbing, ski mountaineering, and glacial travel. If modern ice axes have much better technical and mechanical features, no tool can compete in beauty and elegance with the traditional wooden ice axe. Colder temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns and fewer daylight hours make factors like kit trueYou don't really need a T rated ice axe for classic mountaineering, though it certainly wouldn't hurt. Performance versatile ice axe for mountaineering, now a "classic" in its category. I have one in 59cm. The Grivel air tech evo and Petzl summit evo would both be more than strong enough and capable for any of the routes the routes you mentioned. IMO, if you get into ice climbing with those, you'll probably be looking for a modern pair of axes within a couple of years, if not months. So I bought the Summit Evo The ice axes for steep firn and snow. I say this because far too many people falsely think an ice axe is only really for self-arresting. there's so many advantages to climbing this way. The venom is best for routes where I think the best tools for beginners these days are tools like the Black Diamond Viper, Petzl Quark and Grivel Matrix. Ice axes are not sophisticated tools. Any difference will be negligible if you're well practiced. Great all around ice axe, handles steeper terrain, and is quite comfortable paired with an ice tool when it gets too steep for an axe alone. usqpg esdh jkf nwecv ysacah nsjbk ightch hhhfw gozpg zmr