Mountaineering ice axe black diamond. Here are the best ice axes for your next adventure.


Mountaineering ice axe black diamond. On other days, we may spend hours with one or two axes in use, perhaps climbing steps of ice or rock. With standout models like the Raven or the Venom and numerous optional accessories such as leashes or pick protectors, you can equip yourself with gear that is both durable and lightweight. Now redesigned, the Raven is lighter, and sports an updated investment-cast, stainless steel head ergonomically improved fo Black Diamond's modern take on Chouinard's original curved-pick mountain axe, the Raven Ice Axe is a classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on classic climbs the world over for decades. From the leader in mountaineering gear. The Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe is an ultralight, complete feature ice axe that weighs a mere 362 grams. Find your perfect setup. But for a walk up, I'd stick with a straight axe with no grip. We stock leading climbing brands such as Petzl, Edelrid, DMM, Black Diamond, Climbing Technology and Grivel. However, I also need an ice axe that is strong and would match up with performance for self-arrest. Is this a good item to have, or should I just carry an ice axe on my back and use Oct 1, 2001 · A modern version of chouinard's original curved-pick mountain Axe, the Black Diamond raven ice axes is Black Diamond classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on classic climbs the world over for decades. Such is the case with Black Diamond's Venom ice axe. C. It features an aluminum shaft and a stainless-steel head, making it both strong and durable. Shop crampons, ice axes, ice screws, harnesses, carabiners, ropes, and more essential equipment for your next mountain adventure. Oct 9, 2014 · Black Diamond say: “ Built with a streamlined design and lightweight materials, the Black Diamond Raven Ultra Ice Axe is ideal for ski mountaineering missions, descending off alpine rock climbs or those just-in-case situations that involve short sections of glacier travel. 'B' rated axes include the Raved and Venom series for glacier crossing and snow walking. I have climbed Mt. The ice axe, or “ice tool” as it’s more commonly called, has come a long way since the alpenstock hit the market in the mid-1800s. Both seem destined to become familiar sights on winter crags in the coming seasons, but which is the axe for you? We Dec 5, 2023 · We tested mountaineering backpacks from Osprey, Black Diamond, Gregory, and more to find the best packs for your alpine pursuits A huge range of Black Diamond Ice Axes, including the black diamond Viper ice axe and Cobra for mixed climbing and the Fusion and Reactor for leashless ice climbing. I haven’t used it yet but the weight is very reasonable and the build quality is solid. You can view Winter and Alpine Hardware Review – Part 1: Classic Ice Axes and Crampons by clicking here. It can also be stripped down for alpine use. Its design is stylish and efficient, demonstrating a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics in the harsh mountain climbing environment. 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. It’s a technical tool designed to excel on steep ice, which it does, but to also be used for tricky mixed sections. 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. The UKC team looks at high performing ice axes from top brands such as Petzl, DMM, Black Diamond, Grivel and Edelrid. The investment-cast, curved, stainless steel head's shape improves handling for traverses, and it has a large hole for carabiners of any size. It is a simple, well-made, T-rated axe that will cover you from hillwalking into climbing. Engineered as an ultralight ice axe that can handle technical terrain, the Black Diamond Venom LT Tech excels on ski mountaineering trips and alpine rock routes. Dec 11, 2019 · The Black Diamond Swift is one of our favorite "T"-rated axes for general mountaineering. 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. What We Like: Its lightweight design reduces fatigue on long Ice axes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, designed either as climbing tools or as protection on steep ground in the snow and ice. Makes plunging the axe easier as well. Modern updates include a lighter feel, redesigned geometry, and a better handle whether you're ascending steep, icy couloirs or traversing glaciars. 5 days ago · Looking for reliable ice axes for your mountaineering adventures? Explore our top 15 picks to stay safe and prepared while climbing the toughest peaks. Jan 21, 2025 · The Black Diamond Raven With Grip axe and Serac crampons offer a solid, reliable setup for winter hillwalking and low-grade mountaineering. The ice axe occupies a central place among the essential tools of every mountaineer. The adjustable So, in summary: Type 1: Standard walking and alpine mountaineering axes, suitable for ice axe belaying, but not designed for hard modern mixed climbing involving torquing picks etc. The updated pick, adze and spike geometry allows for more secure placements, whether you're kicking steps up Aconcagua or winding throu Nov 30, 2014 · A durable, easy-to-swing tool built for a full season of winter climbing objectives, the redesigned Black Diamond Viper Ice Tool provides all-around performance for the ice and alpine climber. Mountaineering is an activity that demands not only great physical and mental preparation, but also suitable, reliable equipment. These tools, designed with extreme care and attention to detail, are made using excellent materials, such as hardened steel, which gives them superior resistance and Oct 30, 2020 · Much Like Black Diamond’s Raven Ice Axe, the Grivel G1 and G1 Plus are classic, reliable ice axes for mild terrain and backcountry skiing. Nov 2, 2023 · A versatile mountaineering collection, Black Diamond's Venom LT converts from all-mountain ice axe to piolet and shovel for ski mountaineers and adventurers. Jan 16, 2022 · Black Diamond Raven Pro: first impressions The latest version of the Black Diamond Raven Pro axe, released in winter 2020, looks pretty different to its previous guise. Mar 16, 2025 · The Black Diamond Swift is one of the best ice axes on test over the past few years. The Vipers hydroformed shaft extends through the grip for maximum rigidity and a responsive feel, and our Alpine Pick is included to beef up durability on scrappy mountain terrain. Shop for ice axes at Whittaker Mountaineering. A durable, easy-to-swing tool built for a full season of winter climbing objectives, the redesigned Black Diamond Viper Ice Tool provides all-around performance for the ice and alpine climber. The fit in your hand feels just right, and any experienced ice climber would appreciate the attention paid to ergonomics. The raven's durable aircraft aluminum shaft and investment-cast stainless steel pick are engineered for secure self-arresting. BLACK DIAMOND RAVEN ICE AXE WITH GRIP $219. It'll be easier to walk with and easier to get used to as a first timer. Feb 12, 2022 · Website DescriptionWinter and Alpine Hardware Review – Part 2: Technical Ice Tools and Crampons Saturday 12th February 2022 By Bruce Goodlad In the second part of this two-part review, we look at equipment suitable for harder winter climbing and Alpine routes. It's a solid, comfortable general mountaineering axe, as long as the terrain isn't too technical. Mar 22, 2019 · The Black Diamond Raven Pro is the lighter cousin of the mega-popular Raven. We don't know when or if this item will be back in stock. Aug 29, 2014 · Our technical mountaineering axe, the Raven Pro is now lighter and features a slightly angled and ergonomically improved trapezoidal shaft for better grip and more aggressive climbing. Jan 17, 2024 · If you’re climbing or mountaineering, having the right tools is necessary for your success and safety. If you are in the market for some technical tools, this is the review for you. We’ve laid out some of our favorites for mountaineering below, but there’s enough variety to meet you wherever you are in your outdoor journey. Learn the nuances of gear selection for hiking, mountaineering, and technical climbs, and ensure your safety with our Mountain Logic recommendations. Mar 9, 2024 · The Black Diamond Venom is a hybrid ice axe which is suitable for both technical mountaineering and general mountaineering. Featuring a solid steel pick and an aluminium shaft, it offers dependable performance for general mountaineering and glacier travel. The stainless steel head gives me the performance, durability and strength I need in a general mountaineering ice axe. Shop crampons, ice axes, ice screws, pick axes & more ice tools today. I already had the Black Diamond Alpine Avy Safety Set with the Transfer LT shovel, so when I needed an ice axe this was a natural choice. In this regard, it competes squarely with the DMM Spire Tech. Our modern take on Chouinard's original curved-pick mountain axethe Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on climbs all over the world for decades. Our technical mountaineering axe, the Raven Pro is now lighter and features a slightly angled and ergonomically improved trapezoidal shaft for better grip and more aggressive climbing. The tool has an open pick angle and ergonomic handle to make ice climbing easy. This pairing strikes a great balance of performance,. Made for technical mountaineering, the Black Diamond Raven Pro ice axe is now lighter and features a slightly angled, ergonomic trapezoidal shaft for better grip and more aggressive climbing. Whether it's a technical ice axe for mixed and ice climbing or a straight ice axe for glacier hiking, Black Diamond meets all the expectations of high-altitude adventurers. The Raven Pro has all the same features but is two ounces lighter and a bit more expensive. This is a very solid feeling axe helped by the ex Jun 19, 2020 · Amazon. Jan 12, 2023 · From glacier travel to ice climbing, the best ice axes will provide the security needed to scale those big, intimidating slopes. Here are the best ice axes for your next adventure. We have climbing tools (with some great pair deals) as well as axes designed for mountaineering, winter walking and for ski touring. Hydra Ice Tool Black Diamond on sale at Snowleader. The adjustable FlickLock® pommel (upper grip) acts as a secondary grip position for ice Feb 23, 2021 · Black Diamond's revised Raven Pro features a number of updates over the previous version. com : BLACK DIAMOND Raven Ice Axe 2020 : Sports & OutdoorsAbout this item Durable, trapezoidal cross-section, aircraft-grade aluminum shaft Investment-cast, one-piece stainless-steel head with a large hole for a carabiner Pick's curve and teeth engineered for secure self-arresting CEN-B certified Jun 14, 2019 · Last year I wrote an article comparing different lightweight mountaineering axes. Accessories keep you attached to the ice and your gear attached to you; these include picks, leashes, grip rests, and head attachments. I like that I don’t have to worry about damaging the replaceable pick. An all-around mountaineering axe will be used for many Apr 28, 2025 · The Black Diamond Raven is a time-tested, classic mountaineering ice axe designed for simplicity and reliability. Best of all, it is aggressively priced compared to most of its modular or higher-performing competition. Type 2: Modern leashless tools suitable for ice axe belaying, and also designed for hard modern mixed climbing involving torquing picks etc. Lightweight trapezoidal, slightly curved aluminum shaft with grooved grip for more control during self-arrest or climbing Investment-cast, one-piece stainless-steel head with a tuned aggressive pick and large hole for a carabiner A modern take on Yvon Chouinard's original curved-pick mountain axe, the Black Diamond Raven ice axe is a classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on classic climbs the world over for decades. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Ice axe High-quality ice axes are an indispensable element for expert mountaineers and climbers, who are constantly looking for equipment that guarantees safety and reliability during their challenging adventures at high altitude. A more technical take on our traditional mountaineering piolet, the Raven Pro is now lighter with a slightly angled and ergonomically shaped trapezoidal shaft, tuned pick and adze geometry for improved ice performance, a grooved grip for more secure grip and a redesigned spike for better bite and plunge-ability. If you start climbing steep stuff, then look at the venom. I am not looking to do any technical ice climbing or Jun 19, 2020 · From the local boulders to remote alpine faces, our cutting-edge climbing equipment is designed and built for the send across the full spectrum of climbing pursuits. It's offered in lengths from 55 cm to 90 cm. Gear up for ice and alpine climbing with Black Diamond. The Venom’s stainless steel head features a fully inte Shop for Black Diamond Ice Axes at REI - Browse our extensive selection of trusted outdoor brands and high-quality recreation gear. Gear up with sustainable, high-performance tools for 2025 summits. Shop on eBay now! Amazon. The shaft is built from lightweight yet strong and durable aircraft grade aluminum alloy. Enter the Black Diamond Hydra - a highly refined and versatile tool - and the DMM Cortex - a strikingly burly yet lightweight workhorse. Jan 29, 2024 · Compare Glacier Ice Axes: Petzl, Camp X-Light, & Black Diamond. Learn all there is to know about these essential mountaineering tools. Lightweight, durable, and versatile tools for mountaineering and glacier travel. Mountaineering ice axe BLACK DIAMOND-REACTOR ICE TOOL at the best price on ekosport, the number 1 for outdoor sports! Fast delivery Secure payment! Jun 19, 2020 · Amazon. It has a straight shaft and head with a very sharp triangular point at the tip. 00 BLACK DIAMOND Only 3 left in stock Quick view Add to Cart Compare Feb 9, 2025 · Black Diamond's Raven is a classic ice ace based off Chouinard's original pick. com : Black Diamond BD41016975 Raven Ice Axe with Grip 75 cm : Sports & OutdoorsCurrently unavailable. Black Diamond's technical ice tool made for climbing frozen waterfalls all day long. Sitting in Black Diamond's line-up between the mountaineering-oriented Swift and the more sedate Raven, the Raven Pro is well suited to snowy May 15, 2024 · On the outset, the Black Diamond Swift clearly stands out as a premium ice axe choice. Shipping & Returns Combining the technical precision of an ice tool with the classic alpine functionality of a piolet, the Black Diamond Venom ice axe is the one tool to have for technical ski mountaineering missions, classic glacier routes and moderate snow climbs with short cruxes. Top quality, great selection and expert advice you can trust. Jun 10, 2025 · Discover the Black Diamond Mountaineering Kit—ice axes, apparel, and packs for epic alpine adventures. If you need any After years of renting, I’m finally ready to purchase my own ice axe for summits in the area (Adams, Hood, Helens, Rainier). Its hot-forged pick, sweet adjustable pommel, and curved shaft help it shine when the going gets tough. Unlike the Grivel G1, which boasts a straight shaft and curved pick, the G1 Plus adds in a slightly curved shaft to enhance mobility and power. com: black diamond ice axeCheck each product page for other buying options. Clothing and equipment for skiing, hiking, mountain and outdoor activities Black Diamond Alpamayo Ice Snow Axe Mountain Climbing Gear 28" Pre-Owned · Black Diamond $59. Combining the technical precision of an ice tool with the classic alpine functionality of a piolet, the Black Diamond Venom ice axe is the one tool to have for technical ski mountaineering missions, classic glacier routes and moderate snow climbs with short cruxes. Reviews, ratings, and price comparisons covering 40+ mountaineering axes, ice tools, crampons, and other ice and snow gear. Elevate your ice climbing with Black Diamond Cyborg Crampons, Sabretooth Pro, and Express Ice Screws. This year I’m comparing their slightly heavier brethren. When your mountaineering requires a little pick swinging, but not enough to justify a hybrid tool like the Black Diamond Venom (I lost mine, then bought another later) the Raven is a very good choice. The Venom directly addresses the dilemma of having to choose between a general mountaineering axe and a technical ice tool. This features the new 'dual density' grip that can be adjusted so that it will feel at home in any hand. Technical Axes/Tools As we Aug 19, 2020 · Roundup of light minimal to burly multipurpose ski mountaineering ice axes including Blue Ice, Black Diamond, Grivel and Petzl and how to choose. The Raven is my fourth ice axe. Some days, all we need our axe to do is disappear in our pack, perhaps to come out in a steep or firm moment. But its modularity is where it really shines. Mountaineering ice axe - Unisex - Hydra Ice Tool - Black Diamond. Both are designed to work well in low angle glacial terrain, but also perform on steep snow and ice up to about 75 degrees – much more versatile than a standard ice axe. The Raven Pro, along with the rest of the Raven family, are among the most comfortable ice axes to carry. Explore now! Black Diamond's Raven is a classic ice axe redesigned for modern mountaineering, and the Raven Ice Axe + Grip adds greater security that you can rely on when you're in high, icy places. I’m typically never winter climbing, and summiting during the March - Sept mountaineering season. I am looking to in the future take a trip to the PNW to Mount Baker and Mount Adams and I'm currently doing research on Ice Axes, I am looking at the Black Diamond Raven and the Petzl Glacier, does anyone have any recommendations? I live in the North East so I cant easily try them out as theres no big mountains within a few hours of me. Check out our complete line of mountaineering gear: ice axes, crampons, packs, tents, gloves, headlamps, helmets and more. But what makes the perfect all-around tool? We explain how to choose an ideal ice axe for mountaineering. Jan 28, 2022 · With products in our fleet ranging in price, there's a significant difference between the products we tested. E. Explore Black Diamond's ice & alpine climbing equipment for your next mountain adventure. The investment-cast, curved, stainless steel head's shape Ice axes and tools for ice, mixed climbing, alpine climbing, and mountaineering. Mar 21, 2019 · The Black Diamond Venom is a modular ice axe that is geared towards steep snow climbs, moderate water ice, and complex glacier routes. Lightweight 610g, customizable with included accessories. Lightweight with an investment-cast, ergonomic, stainless-steel head, the Raven axe sits in your hand comfortably while glacier w Amazon. Modern updates include a lighter feel, redesigned geometry, and a better handle whether you're ascending steep, icy couloirs or traversing glaciers. Now redesigned, the Raven is lighter, and sports an updated investment-cast, stainless steel head ergonomically improved for increased comfort while walking. " -JJ Justman, RMI Expeditions Guide Check out our complete line of ice climbing gear: ice tools, crampons, ice protection, packs and more. One of the notable features of the Swift is The Grivel GZERO Ice Axe is a popular choice for climbers who value lightweight gear without sacrificing performance. Perfect for climbers aiming for Rainier, Denali, and beyond. Black Diamond Raven Pro: The Raven Pro is a lightweight ice axe designed for alpine climbing and general mountaineering. Oct 2, 2020 · A strong and stable ice axe is a must in these types of situations. A durable easy-to-swing all round ice tool for all grades of Scottish winter and Continental icefall climbing. The Viper’s hydroformed shaft extends through the grip for maximum rigidity and a responsive feel, and it comes with a hot forged Natural Ice Pick. Both are still hill walking axes rather than “proper” mountaineering axes, but in terms of overall capability they’re right at the upper end of that Gear Review Black Diamond Venom mountaineering: yes technical ice: yes rugged: yes 17oz Every now and then a piece of gear comes along that changes the paradigm. SAVE up to 15% on a PAIR, PACKAGE or SUPER PACKAGE! Cobra Axe is carbon fiber built and highly refined for ice and alpine. Start your journey today! Jun 21, 2024 · A full tutorial on ice axes and crampons for mountaineering. The updated pick, adze and spike geometry allows for more secure placements, whether you're kicking steps up Aconcagua or winding through crevasse fields in the Alps, while the investment-cast, polished Jun 19, 2020 · Amazon. Routes where you plan on using one (or more) axes to climb some alpine ice, work through some deep The Black Diamond Raven ice axe with Grip is an update on Black Diamond’s classic single axe for mountaineering. Designed to work with the innovative Integrated Component Exchange (I. Dec 8, 2022 · Black Diamond Reactor If you’re familiar with Black Diamond tools, then imagine a cross between the Black Diamond Fuel and the original Black Diamond Fusion. Price and other details may vary based on product size and color. Our modern take on Chouinard's original curved-pick mountain axe, the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on classic climbs the world over for decades. It works well for moderate snow climbs, early-season backpacking, and basic glacier routes but is a cut below the Explore Black Diamond's ice & alpine climbing equipment for your next mountain adventure. At LD Mountain Centre, we offer a diverse selection of high-quality climbing ice axes from trusted brands like Grivel and Black Diamond. Independent ice/snow climbing device reviews by real outdoors people. The stainless steel head is designed for years of dependable use. The Raven Pro's only real downsides are its adze performance and sub-standard steep snow and ice climbing ability. Ideal for ice climbing and dry-tooling. Ice axe Black Diamond HYDRA ICE TOOL: 50 cm, stainless steel, ergonomic handle. com : Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe with Grip, 55 cm : Sports & OutdoorsAbout this item Durable, trapezoidal cross-section, aircraft-grade aluminum shaft Investment-cast, one-piece stainless-steel head with a large hole for a carabiner Comfortable, dual-density molded grip Pick's curve and teeth engineered for secure self-arresting Equipped with updated Slider Leash Sep 13, 2024 · The new Black Diamond Hydra has hit the shelves and it’s one of the best ice and mixed climbing axes that we’ve ever used. It can also be used for hiking, glacier travelling and other activities on icy trails and slopes. Navigate snow and ice with confidence using our detailed guide to choosing ice axes and crampons. A requirement for high mountain and glacier travel. This buying guide is designed to help you choose the ice axe best suited to your needs, taking into account the different technical characteristics and types of mountaineering Apr 11, 2024 · The performance we seek from an ice axe varies widely depending on the day’s objective. Oct 1, 2001 · A modern version of chouinard's original curved-pick mountain Axe, the Black Diamond raven ice axes is Black Diamond classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on classic climbs the world over for decades. It’s sleek, black design is both stylish and functional. 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. Adams, St. Feb 14, 2024 · The latest version of Black Diamond’s Raven Pro axe now has a slightly bent shaft and a lighter overall weight – all designed to make for a more capable and ergonomic axe. To make it easier for you to find Jun 19, 2020 · From the local boulders to remote alpine faces, our cutting-edge climbing equipment is designed and built for the send across the full spectrum of climbing pursuits. Sep 29, 2013 · Ice Axes come in many shapes and sizes. Most notably, it now has a slightly bent shaft and a lighter overall weight – all designed to make for a more capable and ergonomic ice axe that occupies a spot in the Black Diamond line-up just below the T-rated Swift and Shop mountaineering axes at MEC: Find your essential ice climbing tools for winter adventures online or in-store, provided by brands like Petzl, Black Diamond and more. Mar 6, 2025 · If you're looking for a fresh set of higher-end technical ice tools, two much-discussed models new this season are bound to turn your head. For general mountaineering and not climbing steep ice, I'd just go with the black diamond raven. Whether it's ice climbing in the Alps, crossing mountain ranges or technical mixed climbing, this Two great ice axes on the market right now are the Petzl Sum’tec and Black Diamond Venom, with an adze rather than a hammer for general mountaineering. We feel the Black Diamond Raven is the best axe you can buy for the money. May 20, 2025 · L'Hydra Ice Tools is a mountaineering ice axe from the brand Black Diamond. And while a really lightweight axe is great if it’s going to mainly live on your pack, a slightly sturdier tool is ideal for more technical objectives. ) system developed by Black Diamond, l'Hydra Ice is configurable so you can maximise your performance on any technical winter terrain. The Outdoor Gear Exchange has a large selection of ice climbing and mountaineering tools from Petzl, Black Diamond, CAMP, and Grivel. Ice Axes Climbing ice axes are essential tools for ascending icy slopes and frozen terrain during alpine and ice climbing expeditions. It's gained a kinked shaft and lost a bit of weight, and together with some smaller refinements these changes add up to make a better, more ergonomic axe. com : Black Diamond BD41016860 Raven Ice Axe 60 cm : Sports & OutdoorsAbout this item Excellent protection without hindering activity Purpose designed and built Cutting-edge climbing equipment is designed and built for the send across the full spectrum of climbing pursuits by Michael Powers, IFMGA AAI Senior Guide & Director for Staff Development Question: From the January 2007 edition of AAI's E-newsletter I am looking to get out in backcountry skiing more, and have noticed there is an option for a ski pole with an ice axe pick on the top, specifically, the Black Diamond Whippet. The Black Diamond Raven Pro shaves critical weight by using a lightweight aluminum shaft. Nov 15, 2024 · Our review of the Black Diamond Hydra found it swings just as good as the best of them. Shop with Whittaker Mountaineering for lightweight, mountaineering ice axes from Black Diamond and Petzl. 00 or Best Offer Our heritage is rooted in the mountains, and our range of ice and alpine climbing gear handles everything from light-and-fast FAs to complex mountaineering objectives. Helens, and I just returned from using my Raven on my second summit of Mt Rainier. Features: The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a traditional mountaineering piolet. From the leader in ice climbing gear. xpln eee doqmqpa ddfm rnyj zmcq siand kemn zqnt burqhag