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We put ice axes to the test from brands like Petzl, Black Diamond, Grivel, and more to find the best
Assisting in ascending steeper snow is another one of the foundational jobs of a mountain axe and thus a category we weighted very heavily. Photo: Ian Nicholson and Graham Zimmerman use their axes in mid-dagger position while traversing a steep slope while attempting to climb a new route in the Kichatna Range, AK.
Over the last 10 years, we've tested over 21 of the best ice axes on the market. 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. 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. Our expert team is comprised of alpine mountain experts that use each axe side-by-side while exploring the mountains of the Pacific Northwest. Our in-depth research and conclusions are designed to help you find exactly what you need.
Climbs steep snow and water ice nearly as well as an ice tool, lightweight, compact length means it can go inside the pack for ski-mountaineering & alpine rock climbing, adjustable slider pommel
Modular head works with all of BD's ice tool picks, climbs steep snow and ice well, comfortable to carry in any position, great value, sweet FlickLock style slider pommel, grip, big spike, can clip two carabiners to the hole in its head
Lightest weight mountain axe with a spike, great price, very comfortable, solid self-arrest performance
Extremely lightweight, second lightest model we tested and the lightest overall to feature a steel head, steep snow climbing performance and self-arrest abilities, versatility
One of the best ice axes for the price, lightweight, comfortable to carry, excellent self-arrest performance, solid adze performance
Lightweight, decent steep snow performance, comfortable to carry in self-belay/piolet canne position, decent self arrest performance
Great price, self-arrests very smoothly, adze is above-average for digging snow anchors or choping tent platforms well
Lightest B-rated ice axe on the market, comfortable to carry in self-belay position, provides decent security in steeper terrain
Lightweight, comfortable to carry for long periods of time
Good price, excellent self arresting performance, decent steeper snow climbing ability, comfortable to carry
Comfortable to carry in either position, lighter than average weight, smooth self-arresting
Comfortable to carry, great price, decent adze performance, head is easy to clip in several fashions
Cons
Self-arresting, versatility, adze option is on the small side
Heavy, rubber grips get torn up quickly, pick isn't as durable as other models
Only comes in one size, just okay steep snow performance
No real spike, only available in one fairly short length (45cm)
Just okay steep snow climbing ability
Tiny adze, spike could be better, poor at digging snow anchors, not the most comfortable to carry in self-arrest (pick-forward) position
Less comfortable to carry than other models, particularly in self-arrest positions; slightly heavier than average
Little adze, no spike, pick doesn't penetrate ice or firm snow well, no plug in shaft
Sliced shaft shaft style spike isn't as effective and wears out quickly, poor steep snow climbing performance
Just okay steep snow climbing ability, marginally on the heavier side
Doesn't penetrate hard ice well, below average steep snow performance
Doesn't penetrate firm snow or ice well, below average steep snow performance
Bottom Line
Summertime alpine and moderate water ice slayers, this superlight tool can't be touched for its performance to weight ratio
This is a versatile, capable model that excels at a broad spectrum of mountaineering objectives, while hitting a great price point
One of the most versatile axes for the weight, this model performs surprisingly well at a wide range of tasks
The lightest model to feature a 100% steel head, it's surprisingly versatile for its weight
One of the best models you can buy for the price
A useful for the right type of user, it's perfect for mountain ranges that require limited glacier travel and steep snow negotiated earlier in the season
If you are new to the sport or on a tight budget, this is adependable model that offers solid all-around performance for the price
One of the lightest rated ice axes on the market, it's ideal for basic mountaineering
Decently lightweight and comfortable, but was generally outperformed in nearly every category
High quality and a decent price, it offers solid performance
A tried and true model that brings respectable performance at a reasonable price
Excellent price for a solid all-around mountaineering axe for use on moderate snow climbs and basic glacier routes
Curved shaft assists in steep snow and self-arresting
Outstanding steep snow climbing performance
Teardrop-shaped shaft reduces fatigue while mid-daggering
Comfortable
Versatile
Excellent self-arrest performance
REASONS TO AVOID
Average in weight
On the more expensive side
If we could only have one ice axe for a wide range of activities, the Petzl Summit Evo would be it. This non-modular axe climbs steep snow and ice routes and navigates complex glacier routes like a champion. While most at home on challenging routes, it's still light and comfortable enough to be used by nearly anyone. There's just so much we love about the Summit Evo. Its hot-forged pick penetrates firm snow and ice, and its curved shaft has a unique teardrop-shaped design that proves far less fatiguing on steeper routes than any model we tested. It also provides one of the more confidence-inspiring self-arrests and top-notch adze performance.
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. 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.
Weight: 16 oz | Design: Straight shaft without hammer
REASONS TO BUY
Great price
Most comfortable model to carry
Narrow head provides additional clipping options
Self-arrests well, particularly in softer conditions
REASONS TO AVOID
Doesn't climb steep snow well
Heavy
Below average performing adze
Pick doesn't penetrate firm snow and ice as well as other models
With products in our fleet ranging in price, there's a significant difference between the products we tested. We feel the Black Diamond Raven is the best axe you can buy for the money. It's a solid, comfortable general mountaineering axe, as long as the terrain isn't too technical.
It works well for moderate snow climbs, early-season backpacking, and basic glacier routes but is a cut below the rest when the going gets tough. The Raven did face some extremely tough competition from the equally priced CAMP Neve, which only barely missed our award.
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. 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. The Sum'tec is the brainchild of the late Ueli Steck (along with Kilian Journet and Colin Haley, among others) who wanted a lighter weight ice tool and were willing to make a host of sacrifices except when it came to pick performance, which they felt was foundational to performance. The Sum'tec was born out of these desires, and it shows. The Sum'tec is basically a lightweight shaft with a Quark (a popular Petzl ice tool) head on it.
As a result, the Sum'tec is compatible with all of Petzl's interchangeable picks, hammers, and adzes. No model climbed steep snow or moderate ice better than the Sum'tec. Its pick penetrated firm snow and ice, and the adjustable slider pommel and nicely curved shaft make the Sum'tec a tool we'd reach for, even when we knew we had to climb sustained steep snow, complex glacier routes, or moderate water ice.
Weight: 8.4 oz | Design: Bent shaft with no hammer
REASONS TO BUY
Extremely lightweight
Good steep snow climbing performance
Lightest model to feature a steel head
Short length can fit inside a pack
Surprisingly versatile
One of the lightest models we tested
REASONS TO AVOID
Average comfort to carry
Only available in one length (45cm)
Poor adze performance
No real spike
The Petzl Ride is our favorite ultralight model. It's nearly the lightest model we tested and is less than an ounce heavier than the lightest option in our review. Despite its low weight, it features a steel pick and adze, which adds a fair amount of versatility and performance. It's most at home ski-mountaineering or alpine rock climbing but is versatile enough for basic snow climbs and moderate glacier routes.
Despite its low weight, the Ride's pick provided good purchase, even in firmer conditions, and was one of the most confidence-inspiring while ascending steeper terrain. It was also one of the most comfortable to carry in the 11 ounces and under category. While the Ride faced some fierce competition, its lighter weight, compact length (that could be carried inside your pack if the terrain requires), and confidence-inspiring steep snow climbing performance are what helped set it apart from the competition.
We carefully considered options currently available before selecting models to include in our review. We did our best to choose our favorite models for a wide spectrum of uses and applications. We then compared them in primary categories both head-to-head in more systematic tests and in the field, reporting our findings here.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
Why Trust GearLab
Ian Nicholson is a professional guide, snow expert, and mountain climber extraordinaire. He and his team bring this review to fruition with their years of experience and expertise in a niche field. Ian is an IMFGA guide (the best there is) and guides snowy mountain summits and descents in Alaska, Washington, and California. He regularly uses ice axes while climbing up steep couloirs with skis strapped to his back, and while tackling more mellow mountaineering objectives. His expertise and nerdy gear obsession are unrivaled in the field. His commitment to in-depth research and heavy testing is what makes this review the best that you'll find on the internet. He spends hours hacking away at waterfalls, digging snow pits, and teaching self-arresting in a number of his outdoor education classes.
Our testing process begins after spending hours researching the newest and best ice axes on the market. We selected 10 of the most current and up-to-date options. We purchase each product at retail cost and put in the muscle to test them side-by-side. We hike up snowfields, dig snow pits, hack at technical water ice falls, self-arrest while guiding, teaching, and exploring the Washington North Cascades. All axes are put to the test while climbing alpine rock, ski-mountaineering, and embarking on snowy backpacking trips. Over a dozen guides specializing in alpine guiding have contributed to this review.
Mont Blanc was first climbed in 1786, and a lot has changed since the first axes were invented in the European Alps during the late 1700s. Before the invention of crampons at the turn of the 19th century, an axe's primary job was chopping steps, and thus the reason for the seemingly ridiculous length of axes. Chopping steps is now rarely done but is still a useful function of an axe. Modern axes now have a much broader scope of requirements that even the most recreational user will demand. Depending on your adventures, like early-season backpacking or steep alpine ice routes where an axe might be paired with an ice tool, there can be a lot to consider.
Another one of the many uses of an adze. Ian Nicholson and Graham McDowell on the second of three snow bollard rappels; one of which was overhanging. After attempting to climb Bicuspid tower, Tiedemann Glacier, Waddington Range B.C.
Credit: Ryan O'Connell
What's the Best Value?
Whether you need the absolute lightest axe, the most versatile, or the strongest, the price tag will probably factor into your decision, and might even be your primary consideration. If cost is key, consider the Black Diamond Raven, one of the least expensive we tested. Or, if you place more emphasis on performance, our favorite all-rounder Petzl Summit might fit the bill.
Considering what types of routes you enjoy climbing or aspire to climb will help determine what type of product you might want. Here Graham McDowell contemplates his options. Coast Range BC.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
Self-Arresting
All the axes we tested can self-arrest, but the two most significant factors that influenced each contender in self-arrest performance were the pick shape and its shaft design.
Positive and neutral picks performed better than reverse curve designs, and our testers preferred axes with slight bends in their shaft for increased leverage while self-arresting.
Self-arrest is simply another way of saying stopping yourself and along with assisting with upward progression through increased balance and as an aid while climbing steep snow or ice; self-arrest is likely the other most fundamental function of an ice axe. Here self arrest testing in the Condoriri region of the Cordillera Real, Bolivia.
Self-arresting is an obviously important skill and a technique that must be practiced in the unfortunate event of a fall but consider ice axes primary job is to increase security and minimize the chances of falling to begin with. Here Michael Yarnall taking his time to minimize the chance of a slip.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
Except for the Venom, all of these models feature a hot-forged, positive curve-shaped pick that bites into the snow smoother than any other we tested.
Tester Ian Nicholson comparing contenders side-by-side in a wide array of tests. Here he self-arrests with each contender more than a half-dozen times back-to-back to directly compare their performance.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
The next best scoring models were the Petzl Glacier and the Glacier Literide. These Petzl models are essentially the same, and both self-arrested just as smoothly as the previously mentioned axes, but lack the slight bend in the shaft. They are, however, comfortable for use in a wide range of conditions.
Self-arresting is important not only if you or a person on your rope team were to accidentally slip and fall but also if someone unexpectedly “trap-doors” and falls into a hidden crevasse. Dan Whitmore and David navigating crevasses while trying to avoid the dreaded “trap door” on the Neve Glacier, Snowfield Peak WA.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
The reverse curve pick models like the Petzl Sum'tec, CAMP Corsa Nanotech, and Black Diamond Venom (if we were using one of Black Diamond's reverse curve picks) were the least “smooth” self-arresting products if conditions were firm. They still functioned and bit into the snow reasonably effectively, but were much “bumpier” and took more effort to control. They performed better than some of the superlight models, but not as well as many of the general mountaineering models.
Digging & Step Chopping
We compared each axe's adze performance while digging snow anchors, chopping steps, and hacking out tent platforms.
Steel axes far outperformed their aluminum and titanium counterparts, and full-sized hot-forged adzes generally worked the best. Several of our review team spent more than two hours hacking away at a massive pile of ice, trying to figure out exactly which adzes work best and why.
We worked hard to accurately compare adze performance and to figure out what features and design characteristics lead to the best performance. Some models had too much curve while others not enough. Lastly, an effective cutting edge proved to be among the most important design features. One of the better overall performers the Black Diamond Venom shown here after digging a T-trench.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
Adzes with a slight curve, but not too much, and a sharper cutting edge performed the best. Several models blasted through even the most bulletproof of ice a cut above the rest. Those models are the Petzl Summit and Summit Evo, two models we especially liked because of the shallow ribs built into the adze, which added tremendous strength in what is already a hot-forged design. The Black Diamond Swift and Grivel Air Tech Evolution are also top performers, all featuring hot-forged picks and excellent designs. One thing that made the Swift stand out is how much weight is centered in its head, taking less physical effort in each swing to cut away the same amount of ice.
As climbers and mountaineers, we use the adze of an ice axe for countless applications; building snow anchors, chopping out tent-platforms, cutting steps, or created a snow bollard in the edge of a bergschrund from which to rappel from as seen here in this photo with the Grivel Air Tech Evolution, just to name a few.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
This is another category where the lightest models, which all featured very small aluminum adzes, performed the poorest, though, among the ultralight models, the Petzl Glacier Literide certainly performed the best. The Petzl Ride and Petzl Gully's adzes were small and not particularly our favorite, but offered better performance than the tiny, all-aluminum Camp Corsa and Camp Corsa Nanotech, which both struggled, even with quasi-firm snow.
Ian Nicholson and Graham Mcdowell spending over an hour chopping a tent platform from bullet hard ice with 2" of fresh snow on top while climbing in the Waddington Range BC.
Credit: Ryan O'Connell
Use As Improvised Snow Anchor
B versus T ratings
All UIAA certified axes have either a CEN B (basic), also known as a Type 1 rating, or a CEN-T (technical), also known as a Type 2 rating. These ratings are based on a series of tests with various parts of the axe, measuring the strength of the shaft, pick, and a connection point between these two parts.
All models that meet both of CEN-B and CEN-T ratings are appropriate for use as an anchor during improvised crevasse or to belay directly off of while belaying a climber seconding on snow.
Technically speaking, the shaft and the pick have to both pass all the required tests to officially hold a “CEN-T” rating. For example, The Black Diamond Venom features an identical shaft to the Swift, which carries a CEN-T rating. However, because the pick of the Venom only has a CEN-B rating, the whole axe is considered to have a CEN-B rating. Conversely, a modular headed model like the Petzl Sum'tec, which also carries a CEN-T rating, can only be sold with CEN-T rated picks. Here, we look at how each ice axe fares as a snow anchor as well as a hacking tool.
All UIAA rated models (both CEN-B/Type 1 and CEN-T/Type 2) are okay to use from improvised crevasse rescue or belaying a second climber on snow. CEN-T/Type 2 models are simply stronger. Here IFMGA guide Steve Banks teaches the finer points of crevasse rescue on the Quein Sabe Glacier.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
Without going into too much detail (there is lots of available from the UIAA), we will share some of the easiest to understand tests and see their real-world intentions. The first test is an ice axe weighted from mid-shaft being pulled perpendicularly as if it placed as a deadman. A CEN-B rated axe has to withstand 2.5KN, and a CEN-T has to endure 3.5KN. The strength of the head shaft interface when being pulled perpendicularly, as if it was a vertically placed anchor or standing ice axe belay, a CEN-B has to withstand 2.5KN, and a CEN-T has to withstand 4KN. There are also several tests regarding the strength of the pick.
Do you need a T-rated axe for general mountaineering? Certainly not. Can you still belay off your axe in a T-slot/Deadman or clipped to the eye? Yes, but not for extreme loads. Do you need a T rated axe for harder alpine routes? Not necessarily, but it depends on how hard. A CEN-T-rated axe will obviously be stronger, offer better durability, and be more reliable. For technical climbing where you are often pulling on your tools and weighting only the pick, you should strongly consider a “T” rated model.
We thoroughly tested each model's ability to be used as a horizontally oriented anchor such as in a deadman or "T"-slot as well as a vertically oriented anchor. A vertically oriented anchor is most commonly used to back-up a seated stance, a standing ice axe belay, or beef-up an existing anchor as a second point equalized with a sling or cordellete or as a Saxon's cross.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
Improvised Anchor Considerations
The two most common improvised axe snow anchors are vertically oriented or horizontally oriented. For a vertically oriented anchor, the user is most commonly driving their axe in vertically and using a sling or clipping a carabiner to a hole (this hole is required by the UIAA for all CEN ratings) often called an eye. While we rarely belay directly off of an ice axe in this position, it is useful for backing up a seated stance while belaying, or adding a second point to an existing snow anchor.
We gave higher scores to models that were easier to clip or sling the heads of, as well as models that we found consistently easier to plunge deeply into the snow. The Black Diamond Venom shown as an anchor backing-up a seated stance here.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
We gave higher scores to models with well-designed spikes that helped penetrate the axe deeper into the snow more easily. We also gave models higher scores with larger holes that were easier to clip. A handful of models had large enough head holes that you could clip two carabiners. While we thought this was a unique idea, and hardly a downside, it isn't necessarily something to look for, as most of our review team does not do this. We did make sure that the higher scoring models could easily be clipped with at least one larger sized locking carabiner.
An ice axe's ability to help construct and to improvise as an anchor is extremely important to everything from basic glacier travel to even the most technical of routes. We compared all models both side-by-side and in the field to tell you how they stacked up.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
The other common way people use their axe (to make an improvised anchor) is horizontally oriented in a deadman or T-slot position. This is most commonly achieved by clove hitching around the shaft's balance point (approximately the mid-point) and buried into the snow with the sling coming out of the snow as the bottom of the “T”. CEN-T rated models higher scores than CEN-B ratings. We also gave higher scores to any feature that was aimed at making setting up either of these two anchors easier.
Improvised anchors are most commonly used to belay or fellow climbers, build rappel stations, and perform crevasse rescue but there are countless other uses. Here Michael Yarnall practices saving John Yarnall on day 6 of the Ptarmigan Traverse on the Dana Glacier near Dome Peak, Glacier Peak Wilderness.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
Steep Ice and Snow Climbing
Steep snow and ice climbing performance are some of the most essential attributes of an ice axe. Simply put, we carry an ice axe for various reasons, but the two most important jobs are to help us not fall and to help us stop if we do fall. To test this, we climbed snow and steep ice to test functionality.
After extensive testing, we found axes with steel picks perform better on steeper snow and ice routes compared to aluminum models.
More aggressive hot-forged picks tended to score better in our side-by-side comparison of different models in their steep snow performance. This photo shows the aggressive, heavily drooped, hot-forged pick of the Black Diamond Swift.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
The thickness and design of a model's pick have the biggest influences on performance when the snow gets firmer. Often, hot-forged picks penetrate better than laser-cut or stamped picks because they are thinner.
The Petzl Sum'tec was one of our favorite models for steeper snow routes and moderate ice climbs. While we liked the Black Diamond Venom and appreciated its value being less in cost than the Sum'tec, we thought the Sum'tec performed better in steeper terrain. Here Danny Spreafico using a pair of Sum'tec while climbing the lower portion of the North Face of Mt. Shuksan with Price Lake below.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
The Petzl Sum'tec is our top choice for steeper routes on ice and snow, outperforming the majority of models in our review by a significant margin. The Sum'tec is the most hybrid model we've seen and takes the head of a Quark (Petzl's ice tool) and sticks it onto the shaft of a more traditional axe (originally an idea prototyped for the late Ueli Steck). To make it even better, Petzl added an adjustable pommel to support your hand that can be positioned anywhere along the length of its shaft. Several other manufacturers have since taken on this design.
Adjustable slider pommels are a HUGE are a very nice benefit while climbing in steeper terrain. Many people think that these pommels are only meant to be used at the bottom of the shaft for use when swinging an axe overhead like a traditional ice tool, but we loved them for climbing in mid-dagger positions as well. We gave higher scores in this category to any model that featured one, and higher yet scores to models whose pommels could be set at any position along the shaft, maximizing versatility.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
The Sum'tec climbs WI3 every bit as good as a more traditional ice tool and isn't too shabby on WI4. We climbed WI5 with our testing model, but it took a fair amount more work than with traditional tools. Because the Sum'tec uses the same head as the Quark, the interchangeable adze and pick can be swapped with all of Petzl's ice climbing picks and hammers.
While no model climbed water ice as well as a traditional ice tool, for more moderate ice routes, the Petzl Sum'tec came close and the BD Venom and Petzl Gully were not much further behind yet. We felt there wasn't much difference between these models and a traditional ice tool on WI3, but had to work a harder on WI4 and WI5 when directly compared to a dedicated water ice climbing tool.
Credit: Phil Wadlow
The Black Diamond Venom and the Petzl Gully were both very strong seconds in this category but didn't climb steep snow, or more specifically, moderate water ice, as well as the Sum'tec. The current Venom can now use any of Black Diamond's picks that are designed for their ice tools, increasing its versatility over its previous model.
The Petzl Gully used in mid-dagger/piolet appui position with the slider pommel providing some support and protection. We certainly underestimated how well the Petzl Gully would climb. When we first picked up this sub-10-ounce tool we didn't have high hopes but were throughly impressed.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
The newest Venom now also features an easy-to-adjust pommel. The Petzl Gully's pick is AWESOME, and all of our review team loved its adjustable pommel; it's just so incredibly lightweight that it takes a little more effort to climb water ice in colder conditions. With that said, it's killer for steep snow and moderate water ice.
Even if you are only ascending moderate snow climbs and basic glacier routes, most climbers will eventually want to attempt routes that have some steep snow or moderate ice climbing where low and mid-dagger technique will be used. Here Peter Webb ascends 800ft of 50 degree snow to reach the rock portion of the North Ridge of Forbidden Peak, WA.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
These products have reverse curve picks (or reverse curve options), which are vastly superior when swinging a given model over your head like an ice tool (in Piolet traxion position). They also feature curved shafts, giving the user better clearance when swinging overhead but also keeping their hands out of the snow, and thus warmer and drier in mid-dagger/piolet appui position.
Showing the Black Diamond Venom in mid-dagger/piolet appui position. This photo also displays the benefit of a curved shaft and how it creates clearance for the user's hand while in mid-dagger position as well as when swinging overhead. This clearance has several nice benefits while ascending sustained steep snow climbs as it would keep its users' hands dryer and warmer than models that featured less or no curve.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
All of our testers preferred models with curved shafts for steeper routes, where a fair amount of mid-dagger/piolet appui) and low-dagger/piolet canne are required. Among the more general mountaineering designed ice axes, the Petzl Summit Evo, Grivel Air Tech Evolution, and Black Diamond Swift were our next top picks. They all feature a hot-forged pick, curved shaft, some type of supportive slidder pommel, and rubberized lower grips.
Showing the shaft and related steep-snow climbing features on the Black Diamond Venom (top) and Petzl Sum'tec (bottom), our two highest scoring steep snow models.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
The Petzl Summit performed nearly as well, featuring an identical pick (just a slightly differently shaped shaft) compared to the Summit Evo.
The Petzl Summit Evo (shown here) and the Grivel Air Tech Evolution were the best steep snow climbers to feature a positive curve pick and thus were among the most versatile overall.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
Our testers felt that the ripples on the lower part of the aluminum shaft (of the Summit) provide a noticeable increase in traction. However, the Summit's performance just wasn't quite as good as the axes above, which feature rubber on the lower part of their grips.
We compared review contenders on all types of terrain; from mellow glacier climbs, to steep snow, ice and mixed routes. Here Ian Nicholson leads a pair of climbers up the Sunshine route on Mt. Hood. Oregon Cascades.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
The Camp Neve and the Camp Corsa Nanotech were both noticeably higher performing than any of the Black Diamond Raven axes in the series. The curved shaft provides better clearance while swinging or daggering the axe, and the pick design offers more bite than the Black Diamond Raven models while climbing up steep slopes. Axes with less mass don't penetrate snow or ice as effectively as heavier ones; this is the primary category where the 7.5-ounce all-aluminum Camp Corsa suffered.
Tracey Bernstein comparing all-mountain models on the North Face of Mt. Buckner.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
Comfort to Carry
In the last decade or so, manufacturers have paid an increasing amount of attention to the ergonomics and comfort factor of their axes.
While few axes are truly uncomfortable, some are certainly nicer than others, and the difference in designs becomes even more apparent on warmer days with thinner gloves.
While no model was truly uncomfortable and all are suitable to be carried for days on end, some are certainly more comfortable than others. Additionally, several models proved far more comfortable in a specific position over another (for example self-belay over self-arrest) while others were comfortable in a variety of positions. Phil Wadlow on the Upper Curtis Glacier, North Cascades WA.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
The design of an ice axe, in regards to comfort, strongly reflects its region of origin. For example, in Europe, almost no one walks in self-arrest position with their pick backward (there is literally not even a French name for this technique because so few people use the pick backward position), and most European climbers use self-belay position with the pick forward or piolet canne position.
Hand positions shown from left to right for reader reference. Left most photos: self-arrest, middle photo: self-belay (piolet canne) or with the pick in the snow low-dagger (piolet panne). Right photo: mid-dagger (piolet appui).
Credit: Ian Nicholson
The result of this cultural/stylistic difference is that most European axes are designed to be carried most comfortably with the pick facing forward, while North American designs reflect our habit of carrying axes in the self-arrest position. However, climbers from both regions are beginning to understand that each technique has its place and are starting to use the appropriate position depending on circumstances and terrain. As a result, many manufacturers are starting to accommodate both positions.
While certainly not universally true, we found that many European designed axes are most comfortably carried with the pick facing forward (self-belay/piolet canne), while North American designs show their bias to the self-arrest position. There are certainly several exceptions most notably several of the Petzl and Black Diamond models which proved the most comfortable in either position. Testing on the Easton Glacier, Mt. Baker, WA.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
After months and months of testing, direct comparisons, and input from a large pool of OutdoorGearLab review staff, our testers found that all the Black Diamond Ravens (Raven, Pro, and Ultra) were the most comfortable and the nicest to carry in either position. The Black Diamond Venom and Shift were close behind but weren't quite as comfortable in self-arrests as the Raven series. The Petzl Summit, Petzl Summit Evo, Petzl Glacier, and Petzl Glacier Literide were also quite comfortable. All of these axes are top-tier for comfort in self-belay/piolet canne position, and use in self-arrest position. Petzl removed all the inner teeth on their picks, dramatically increasing comfort in this position.
We spent countless weeks traveling on glaciers and climbing steep snow routes with every single model included in our review to provide you with the most complete data set. We also took input from over a dozen users to get better information about what models might be better for bigger or smaller sized hands. Photo: The Petzl Glacierlite Ride on the Boston Glacier.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
No model was uncomfortable to the point of being unusable or leaving our hand sore. It is worth noting that we found Grivel's axes to have a stronger self-belay preference but are fine in self-arrest. All of CAMP's models, the Neve, Corsa, and Corsa Nanotech, have the most strong self-belay basis.
At OutdoorGearLab, we think people should put their regional biases aside and accept there are times for both self-belay and self-arrest positions depending on the conditions and the terrain. So if you find yourself only using one technique, read up on your less familiar technique and learn about the best times to apply it.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
Weight
Weight matters in climbing and mountaineering with any piece of gear, and this remains no less true with ice axes. However, a super lightweight piece of gear is not suitable for alpine or mountaineering routes. Nor do you need to carry a super burly CEN-T rated model with a modular head if you're planning for walk-up style moderate glacier routes.
Weight is always important with any backcountry activity. However, in the case of an ice axe, it is literally your primary attachment point to the mountain and lighter models don't offer nearly as much versatility. Don't skimp on weight if it's not appropriate for the terrain. With that said, a lighter model is totally suitable for things like ski-mountaineering, where you are likely carrying your axe on your pack 90% of the time and only breaking it out for short steep sections.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
The lightest product we tested was the all-aluminum Camp Corsa, which weighs in at an impressive 7.4 ounces. While the Corsa isn't super versatile, it's insanely light and a good option for basic snow climbs, ski mountaineering, or alpine rock climbs. It's also a nice “just-in-case” option for hikers. We were pleasantly surprised by its self-arresting ability, which was quite smooth as long as conditions were firm.
Many of the lightest models are great for applications where you are carrying them on your pack most of the time of the snow portion of your trip isn't too technical. These ultralight models are great for certain types of applications like early season backpacking, ski-mountaineering and alpine rock climbing, but a poor option for even moderately challenging glacier travel or steeper snow and ice climbs.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
The Petzl Ride is the next lightest model (8.4 ounces) and the lightest model to feature a steel head and adze. While we liked the Corsa and it worked well, the Ride is a fair amount more versatile. The Ride's pick penetrates firm snow well, and its adze, while tiny, still performs well. We also loved the super short 45cm length, which also helps it achieve such a low weight, and could fit inside our pack if we so desired.
For some alpine rocking climbing and ski-mountaineering applications, buying an axe that is short enough that it can go INSIDE your pack is pretty sweet. When it's packed away in the interior, it won't get snagged or hung up while rock climbing nor will interfere with attaching your skis to your pack and will generally stay more out of the way. If this sounds crazy to you, give it a go, you'll likely appreciate it more than you think. Plus a shorter axe is lighter than a longer one... Here Peter Webb applying this technique on the North Ridge of Mt. Stuart.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
The Camp Corsa Nanotech is very similar to the Corsa but sports a riveted-on razor-sharp steel pick, which helps it climb steep snow and ice surprisingly well. At 8.7 ounces, it's only marginally heavier and noticeably steps up security. The lightest contender we tested to feature a full-sized steel pick and a steel head was the Petzl Glacier Literide, weighing in at 11.2 ounces. The Literide blurred the lines between an ultralight model and an all-around mountaineering axe. It doesn't cut any corners in its design and is impressively lightweight. It's as suitable for basic snow routes, and simply glacier climbs as it is on ski mountaineering traverses and alpine rock climbs.
12.5 ounces for the Petzl Summit (seen in this photo) is pretty darn impressive for an all-mountain axe, especially one that performs so well on such a wide range of terrain. Even though it can be tempting on more complex trips it's better to carry the extra 1-4 ounces and have an axe suitable for the objective. Photo: Dan Whitmore waiting for the Water Taxi on Ross Lake for a traverse of the Northern Pickets and happy he is carrying an all-mountain axe for complex routes on the docket.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
We were thoroughly unimpressed with the 12 oz Raven Ultra. It's not that light, nor does it perform that well, and it doesn't even have a spike. There are many axes you can buy that are both lighter and perform better.
Sometimes a heavier axe is worth the weight, depending on the objective. It can inspire confidence and allows its user to move quickly and safer. Here North Cascade Mountain Guides owner and IFMGA Guide Jeff Ward is happy to be carrying his Black Diamond Swift for the confidence it inspires.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
The Petzl Gully is worth talking about, even though it's nearly in its own category. At 9.8 ounces, it is easily low enough in weight for any trip where weight is at a premium but offers unbelievably good steep snow performance. While the Gully isn't an exceptional all-arounder, it excels at a surprising number of things and is perfect for alpine rock climbing, ski-mountaineering, or alpine ice climbing alike.
The Petzl Gully thoroughly impressed us as it was under 10 ounces (9.8 to be exact) but still offered an impressive amount of performance. Despite its impressively low weight, we felt it was certainly suitable for steeper snow routes and moderate ice climbs but still lightweight enough to be used for ski-mountaineering or alpine rock climbing. All-mountain versatility, maybe not, but a truly wide range of applications for such a light axe.
Credit: Ian Nicholson
Of the more general mountaineering axes, the Petzl Glacier Literide is 11.2 ounces, and the Petzl Glacier is 12.3 ounces. At 12.6 ounces, the Petzl Summit brings an incredible amount of performance for being one of the lighter weight models in its category. These three models are comparable in weight to a Black Diamond Raven Ultra but blow it out of the water in every aspect of performance, and are lighter or close in weight. This is impressive, especially when you stop to consider that the Raven Ultra doesn't even feature a real spike. At 14.1 ounces, the Petzl Summit Evo is also respectably light for how much performance it brings to the table.
Depending on the types of routes you climb, the weight and length of your axe is a major factor. Here Tester Ian Nicholson is happy to have a 50 cm Petzl Glacier Literide, the lightest fully featured axe in our review, while carrying it up-and-over the East Ridge of Forbidden Peak.
Credit: Truc Allen
Conclusion
Choosing an ice axe can be trying, and there are a few key factors to consider when finding the one most appropriate for your needs. This review is designed to help you know what to look for before making your purchase. We hope we've been able to help you sort out the things to keep in mind before selecting the axe for your mountaineering purposes.
