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Grivel ice axe review reddit.
Second time this week I see ice axes of Grivel of that age.
Grivel ice axe review reddit. For climbing steel hard ice I might bring a heavier tool, but overall really happy with these tools. Hot forged blade, with a shape that pays homage to the first ice axes of mountaineering Mar 20, 2019 · The Petzl Sum'Tec is a true hybrid of a traditional ice axe and an ice tool. With an ergonomically shaped shaft, it has a comfortable and easy grip, so no unexpected slipping to worry about. Combining advanced materials, innovative design, and superior performance, this ice axe is the ultimate choice for fast-and-light alpine pursuits. The bent shaft is nice on the knuckles when daggering in couloirs. You might end up getting an ice axe and a Whippet eventually anyway. Seems everyone loves them for their versatility. I've swung both and I preferred the X-Dreams, especially on pure WI. The standard Ghost has been joined by a hammer version as well as… Performance versatile ice axe for mountaineering, now a "classic" in its category. 3 ounces, and performs pretty similarly overall. Hello, Im about to buy my first ice axe. The blade is ergonomic for classical mountaineering dry tooling glacier walking ice climbing iconic ski touring technical mountaineering I already have a Camp Neve ice axe that I've used for less demanding tours over the last ten years. Can i cut it off? Share Sort by: Best Open comment sort options Top New Controversial Old Q&A Add a Comment hostedenis • Jul 21, 2019 · 2000 Grivel is the oldest living manufacturer and it feels the responsibility of preserving this tradition. For walking and a first ice axe, probably a straight one like petzl glacier, general sizing other people have mentioned the hand to ankle distance while standing. I am deciding between Singing Rock Bandit 2, ~€150/piece Grivel North Machine, ~€160/piece 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. On other days, we may spend hours with one or two axes in use, perhaps climbing steps of ice or rock. Feb 16, 2015 · The absolutely brilliant new Tech Machine Ice Axes from Grivel are, well, brilliant. Ultimate technical ice axe which combines the most advanced technologies and materials into a modern tool, destined for great performances. Get a hot forged head with a good pick and an effective adze. Choose an axe for your intended level of use [and within your ability] i. These tools have a sleek look that lives up to their name, but obviously, performance is where they really shine. Moderate stuff, you'll be plunging the end 90% of the time, so plain aluminum is actually better. But on less difficult terrain, it can sometimes be awkward. Most resources for ice axes focus on general mountaineering. Light and minimal ice axe for classical mountaineering, with G-bone shaft, adze version. I found the Vertex axe which seems to be a good mid way between a Independent ice tool reviews by real outdoors people. In fact, compared to the Raven, the Glacier is lighter, self-arrests smoother, and climbs steep snow better, while the Raven offers a better price tag. In this comparison review seven models go head to head. So I bought a pair of reactors. So my question is, what are your CAMP Corsa Nanotech: This Ice Axe is a cutting-edge, ultralight ice axe designed for ski mountaineering, high-altitude climbing, and glacier travel, where weight savings and packability are paramount. Both came with leash. People call them Light and minimal ice axe for ski touring and light mountaineering, with G-bone shaft, adze version. I have one in 59cm. I just bought a set of used ice climbing axes/crampons just because Ice Climbing is what I have more of in the Midwest. Mountaineering ice axe, ideal for glacier walking and easy climbs. I've done some research, and landed on either the Petzl Summit Evo or the Grivel Air Tech Evolution. I say this because far too many people falsely think an ice axe is only really for self-arresting. I like the Grivel Air Tech Evo, which is like a spendier / more ergonomic version of a BD Venom or Petzl Summit. I am looking into getting some crampons and ice axes for this winter, and I am wondering what to go with. Grivel continues to forge the progression of climbing equipment with their newest ice tool: the Dark Machine. 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. I love to climb and climb rock/ice 3-4x per week but I also love gear and trying new stuff when ever I can. Im a self proclaimed gear junkie. Its leash is adjustable and has a rubber tip. It features a heavily tapered positive curve steel pick that is designed to excel at climbing steep terrain and penetrating firm snow. 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. It is equipped with an adjustable leash with a rubber tip. The Glacier remained a standout choice for most general mountaineering applications and was one of the higher 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. I hike/climb with a whippet when the situation calls. The result of a mix between history and modernity. but can you use it in situations like this and in summertime with no snow? thanks so much. 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. Mar 16, 2025 · Home / Gear Guides / We get to grips with the best ice axes 2025 We get to grips with the best ice axes 2025 Alex Roddie reviews the best ice axes, an essential tool for managing risk in snowy mountains, with additional testing from David Lintern and Lucy Wallace. But I was looking for something that kind of bridges the gap between a walking axe a fully technical ice axe. I can’t find Grivel lil monsters anywhere. 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. Multi-purpose technical ice axe, suitable for the most demanding alpinists. And never experienced the pommel hitting the ice thing, suspect it's very much related to swing/technique - heard ppl using Nomics complain of the same thing. Light and minimal ice axe for ski touring and light mountaineering, with G-bone shaft, adze version. Petzl's 280g axe is a very popular choice amongst ski mountaineers and anyone else who travels fast and light in the mountains. These axes work, and they work well. 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. Jan 17, 2024 · If you’re climbing or mountaineering, having the right tools is necessary for your success and safety. I'm a big fan of DMM's equipment so I of course skimmed their website. Steel Blade Shaft €10,05 €20,10Save 40% Dec 19, 2023 · Needing an ice axe to take on Mont Blanc and a load of other peaks I had my eye on, the Grivel G-Zero stood out as a lightweight ice axe explicitly crafted for beginners planning their first ski-touring and mountaineering endeavours. The practical grip and the aluminum shaft make it easy t Mar 5, 2024 · Looking for the best climbing axe? Read our roundup and comparison of the Grivel G Zero, Grivel Air Tech, and CAMP Corsa Race axes. And yes, it's perfectly fine for glacier travel. If you are in the market for some technical tools, this is the review for you. Very practical aluminum handle. Tailored to meet the demands of climbers and skiers navigating various alpine terrains like glaciers, couloirs, and ski descents. The Ghost EVO is a lightweight axe that has a classic spike and a slightly curved shaft. com 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 Oct 3, 2011 · Compared with other axes we tested, the G1’s curved adze didn’t cut steps as efficiently, but its 5-inch long, straight steel pick dug in quickly with no bouncing or chatter during self-arrests—which, after all, is the main purpose of a mountaineering axe. 1-To continue using the club axes (eventually will get expensive since I have to pay a small fee if the activity is on my own) 2-To purchase a classic axe. Full winter conditions in the hills and mountains present an added challenge for even the most experienced hill walker or mountaineer. Option would be a Petzl Summit. The shaft is cut at the end to save weight and is primarily designed for ski mountaineering and light mountaineering. From the experience of 200 years, we imagine the future, to create ever more innovative products for mountaineering, climbing, skiing and running/trail running, to take you where your heart takes you, in the safest possible way. The Grivel GZERO Ice Axe is a popular choice for climbers who value lightweight gear without sacrificing performance. Dec 19, 2023 · Hey folks, I'm window shopping axes for some low grade winter climbs, up to III, maybe IV. What are your recommendations for a bent shaft axe? Edit: I found a Grivel Air Tech Evolution on Craigslist for <$80. Then you'll be the one stuck trying to sell old axes to make some of your money back. I already have a walking axe with a straight shaft. 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. 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. 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. The Grivel Air Tech Evolution Ice Axe is a top-of-the-line ice axe designed for serious ice climbers. For dry tooling you really want a technical axe (Petzl Nomic/Grivel Tech Machine/DMM Switch) which run to about 370 ish a pair. If your budget is definitely 300, I'd Grivel G12 and Petzl Summit. Colder temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns and fewer daylight hours make factors like kit 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. Classical ice axe, with simple steel blade and adze, with removable plastic cover for comfort and thermal protection. With the Switch, DMM have created a tool that shares a similar geometry with well-established axes such as the 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). Sumtec seems completely overkill if you don't want to get 1 hybrid axe now Feb 14, 2024 · The best icy outdoor adventures demand the best ice axes. But it also takes advantage of the Italian brand’s long and well-established manufacturing expertise, boasting a one-piece hot-forged head. 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 hot forged pick also makes this tool lighter, and with the lighter pick, the Second time this week I see ice axes of Grivel of that age. Really you are splitting hairs though and for what you are doing, you can make almost anything work just fine. The pick is real sharp and up to the task for mellow ice. I have been using rented equipment however I really want to buy mine since I have encountered some issues on some rental like wear, etc. "The geometry of these axes is absolutely spot on, the feel, the swing, the way the tool moves is really, really good. Here are the best ice axes for your next adventure. Picking it up Saturday! May 1, 2025 · Explore the top ice axes for ice climbing, with expert recommendations on the best tools for performance, safety, and durability. Act 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. It's the brainchild of the late Uli Steck (with influence from Kilian Journet Jul 22, 2025 · The Grivel Monte Bianco Axe is a classic piece of mountaineering equipment, harking back to a time when wood and steel were the cornerstones of alpine adventure. trueYou don't really need a T rated ice axe for classic mountaineering, though it certainly wouldn't hurt. Some are applicable to hikers, some are not. In my country there is only viable to buy either a Grivel G1 Zero or a BD Raven. 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. However, wanting to know how they will do for general mountaineering? Mostly the crampons as I also just got a used mountaineering axe. 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. 200 is designed to recall the history of Grivel, in its 200-year anniversary. The North Machine is a technical ice axe designed for high-level mountaineering, north faces and ice climbing. Others liked the BD Venom and Petzl Sumtec. Grivel seems to be more as a knock off historical one (although one is rated) while furnace seems to be more legit. One tool can accomplish both of these tasks, but in our world of optimization and nuance, we Oct 2, 2020 · BEST FOR: SELF-ARREST Grivel is no stranger to the mountain scene and the G1 ice axe proves that. Mar 21, 2019 · It is also the lightest ice axe we reviewed that our review staff would take on fairly complex glacier routes. 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 Oct 3, 2011 · Compared with other axes we tested, the G1’s curved adze didn’t cut steps as efficiently, but its 5-inch long, straight steel pick dug in quickly with no bouncing or chatter during self-arrests—which, after all, is the main purpose of a mountaineering axe. Very versatile, it will follow the most demanding alpinist in his/her adventures. Consider a beefier second tool at some point with a hammer. I know that dirt and rocks will probably dull the ice axe. Having just seen this Grivel "Condor Evo 3", I'm curious about it. I generally use a Grivel G1 Ice Axe for alpine routes and Petzl Nomics for vertical ice. Jan 23, 2023 · The Grivel Dark Machine crushes on difficult ice with hero status. Until now. The aluminum shaft minimizes weight, making it easier to carry on long treks. 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. It's cheaper, lighter, and literally the same shaft and pick as the Evo. I am currently in the process of buying winter mountaineering boots, crampons and ice axe. Available as both an adze and hammer, the Ghost Evo is slightly heavier at 309g—but in reality both axes are incredibly light for how well they perform and it is the If you don't plan technical ice climbing, get the regular Summit. 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. The other is in a local exhibition about an expedition to Monts Elbrus and Ushba in 1968. And a classic straight ice axe will always be better for glacier travel and self arrest. Modern ice axe with historical aspect, with wooden shaft and one-piece forged head. Anyone have any experience with it? 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. 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. Edit: Charles Moser ice axes and 10 point Salewa ice climbing crampons. As you can see the hand rest is very narrow and does not protect the hand. Nov 22, 2018 · Read gear editor, Chris Townsend's review of the Grivel G1 Plus, an adequate but expensive hillwalking ice axe. Since 1818 Grivel manufactures mountain equipment. The G-bone shaft with lateral grooves allows greater resistance with a lower thic 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. One of the first things you'll notice about the Grivel Air Tech Evolution Ice Axe is its exceptional build quality. 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. Dec 11, 2019 · Steep Ice and Snow The Ride provides security in steeper terrain far better than you'd expect from a sub-9 ounce ice 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. What We Like: Its lightweight design reduces fatigue on long Broadly speaking, axe price correlates with the technical level of the [terrain]. The only real reason I'm looking at the Grivel pack at all is because I'm in need of a new ice ace and will need new crampons soon Easier to go with one brand. Newer tools are just nicer. This axe, manufactured by Grivel, a company with a long and storied history in mountaineering gear, attempts to blend that heritage with modern manufacturing techniques. But it is the perfect ice 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. The practical grip and the aluminum shaft make it easy t I made a post recently asking for advice on bent shaft axes. We've passed them round 5 different testers so far this season and everyone has come back with a resoundingly positive response. I'm interested in an axe with a bent shaft thinking that it could be used for both walking and climbing. The Vario system allows the ch . Im 180cm and was considering for the grivel 58cm and for the BD 66cm. The G-Bone shaft, with a special shape with side grooves, allow Jul 22, 2025 · The Grivel Nepal SA Ice Axe With Long EVO Leash features a forged steel blade, providing durability and reliable ice penetration. Designed by Grivel, a name synonymous with quality ice tools, the Grivel Horn aims to provide hand protection and balanced ice axe support. I see there as being two main categories: plastic and aluminum. DMM Fly pair deal for £255 is a good all rounder for general mountain use. I'm curious what tools people like Dec 8, 2022 · Grivel G-Zero ice axe review: a dependable hillwalking axe that’s kind on the hands 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 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. I bought the Grivel Air Tech Evo off Craigslist for $75 practically new. 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. So yeah, you'd want to offer ~$50 to get rid of it in any hurry. Hood. Ice axe capable of providing a truly excellent performance. I We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. I’ve been a grivel user for some time now, North machines, tech machines, g20s, g22s, g12s. For more technical mountaineering something Im currently watching the descent and saw they have ice axes. Option would be Sum'tec What are your preferred ice clippers? Why? I've always used the BD clippers, but it's one of the few unexamined gear choices I have remaining. Oct 11, 2018 · I need an ice axe which I'll be using for general mountaineering, steep ski mountaineering, and the occasional blue ice glacier. 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. It is made of a lightweight carbon steel material, contributing to the overall low weight of the tool. I have an old Grivel axe. Does anyone have any other suggestions for axes that would work similar to those Grivels? Jul 10, 2025 · First Thoughts on the Grivel Horn The Grivel Horn is a seemingly simple piece of equipment that promises a significant upgrade to the ice climbing experience. Start your journey today! Quick question. The Grivel G Zero axe is a classic shaped ice axe with some modern additions. Its closest competition is the Grivel Air Tech Racing SA, which weighs in at 14. Ice axe for classical mountaineering, with one-piece hot-forged head. 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 Looking for ice axes for my kids. 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. I pair this with a Blue Ice Akila Hammer for 2-tool situations where I also want a more conventional piolet. With a simple steel steel head and aluminium shaft, both straight without and curve, it is ideal for winter walking. Except the extra rubber at the end. With its sleek and ergonomic design, this axe is built to provide maximum performance and safety on the mountain. Hello. Apr 11, 2024 · The performance we seek from an ice axe varies widely depending on the day’s objective. 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. 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. The steel blade hot-forged in one-piece makes it light, balanced and solid. Epic routes and classic WI5's were put up by badass climbers with leashed tools for decades. The Ghost is the lightest axe of the Grivel collection. Its traditional looks make it one for the purists. The Evolution is designed down to the finest detail and is 100% manufactured in Courmayeur, Italy in the shadow of Mont Blanc with 100% solar energy. Options would be Grivel G-1 and the Nepal SA. 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. If you truly need something The UKC team looks at high performing ice axes from top brands such as Petzl, DMM, Black Diamond, Grivel and Edelrid. Sure, you can climb with those. The Plus version differs thanks to the rubber grip. Ninety percent of what you do these will be appropriate. Wood is comfortable to hold, it is warm and it smells like the woods. Hey, I'm looking to buy my first ice axe. But I've never ice climbed before, for example, so I never had the need for anything 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. The blade is ergonomic for better comfort while holding it. But this ice season I felt the itch to try something new for the hell of it. It’s just a basic rundown of features and what to look for if you’re new to snow travel and thinking of purchasing an ice axe for UL hiking. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Feb 2, 2021 · Scottish-style mixed climbing makes great demands on ice axes. I have Black Diamond Prime Ski boots if that changes things for the crampons. But they're caving/ spelunking with no ice in sight. Most of the reviews on them are great but there With an axe this short you have to be comfortable walking on flattish ground without the 3rd point and learn reactive self-belays (which are stronger imo, drive it in with your bodyweight and works in shallower/firmer snow cause the axe is shorter). That said, you probably want something sturdy and with a bit of a curve to it. This model was our overall favorite until Petzl released the Summit Evo, which has a similar pick and I'm considering an ice axe with a bent shaft, like the Petzl Sumtec or Grivel Quantum Light. 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. This isn’t meant to be a comprehensive review of individual ice axes or technique. I was intrigued to see how such a small attachment could enhance performance and safety on the ice. Reviews, ratings, and price comparisons covering 10+ ice tools. Grivel have 200 years of Nov 15, 2024 · Grivel's entry in the lightweight ice axe category inevitably draws comparison to the Petzl Gully. e. It’s sleek, black design is both stylish and functional. ), while other climbers I've met swear by Feb 16, 2018 · Whether it's for Scottish mixed, Continental ice or drytooling, a pair of technical axes are your key weapons. 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. Designed for ice climbing, this aggressive technical ice axe has a G-bone carbon composite shaft and full carbon handle that ensure lightness and, at the same t Oct 17, 2023 · The Grivel Evo is a superb T-rated axe, equally at home walking or on steeper ground, with one caveat according to David Lintern. Jan 28, 2019 · The Grivel Air Tech Evolution (often shortened to Grivel Evo) is a former Editors' Choice winner, and it remains an excellent all-around axe. Winter hiking will need only light and simple. Act Furnace and grivel both make ice tools and axes with wooden shafts that are rated. 4-To purchase a technical 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. G1 is a classical ice ax with a hot-forged head, which provides solidity, balance and lightness. Plastic designs: BD Ice Clipper 31g Petzl Caritool 25g Edelrid SM-CLIP 3R 44g, max load 5kG Aluminum designs: DMM Vault Wire Gate 63g, MBS 3kN DMM Vault Lock 79g, MBS 3kN Grivel Carryabiner A traditional shaped ice axe head might be better for self-arrest. See full list on outdoorgearlab. 3-To purchase a not so classic axe. comments sorted by Best Mar 21, 2019 · The Petzl Glacier is a fantastic ice axe for an excellent price and was nearly the winner of our OutdoorGearLab Best Buy award. 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). nebepttthddqerattjgjdccybrsbbilldqhsjjsaqptkrmqq