Ice axe black diamond review. 8 out of 5 - 11 reviews - outdoorreview.
Ice axe black diamond review. This is a pack that can carry ice climbing gear, is comfortable for a long day's walk on a glacier, can carry your skis, attach your 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. Jul 25, 2012 · Guide Pick™: Black Diamond Venom vs Raven Pro Ice Axe w/ Melissa Arnot Whittaker Mountaineering 5. May 3, 2025 · The Black Diamond Distance 15 is our go-to for quick overnights and self-supported ultras. The somewhat limited robustness may deter those who need a heavy-duty axe, but for a fairly strong and sturdy option, this is a great choice. com : Black Diamond Equipment Venom Ice Axe - 64 cm : Sports & OutdoorsCurrently unavailable. Protect your pack from your adze! fits most ice axes. 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? Our technical mountaineering axethe Raven Pro is lightweight and features a slightly angled and ergonomic trapezoidal shaft for better grip on more aggressive climbing. Product details 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. The classic pick is made of a light but strong chromoly steel that is ideal for self-arresting. You get to see how it fits, how it works, the danger of using a harness-attached ice axe leash, and the values of this. Lightweight, durable, and versatile tools for mountaineering and glacier travel. Weighing in at only 305 grams, the Venom LT Tech comes with a hammer attachment and adjustable pommel. 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. 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. Best tool ever made for dry tooling? Check out our complete line of ice climbing gear: ice tools, crampons, ice protection, packs and more. Reviews, ratings, and price comparisons covering 10+ mountaineering axes/piolets. The Raven Pro's only real downsides are its adze performance and sub-standard steep snow and ice climbing ability. They climb rock well and excel on ice. Independent mountaineering axe/piolet reviews by real outdoors people. Do not dispose of in regular trash. Now redesigned, the Raven is lighter, and sports an updated investment-cast, stainless steel head ergonomically improved for increased comfort while walking. The shaft is built from lightweight yet strong and durable aircraft grade aluminum alloy. Read more The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is designed to give you the greatest comfort and ease of use possible. The pick, adze, and spike geometry allow for secure placements, whether you are kicking steps up Aconcagua or winding through crevasse fields on Rainer The Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe is an ultralight, complete feature ice axe that weighs a mere 362 grams. And for the price point, it is hard to beat. Improving on one of the more popular ice axes of all time, Black Diamond gave the Raven a rubber bottom grip to increase comfort and security on steep terrain. A review of Black Diamond's carbon whippet. The shaft of the ice axe is made of aluminum Mar 20, 2019 · This model used to be the only ice axe that offered such a feature, but Black Diamond just added (new for 2018) a similar feature to their Venom, which is this tool's closest competitor. It offers a balanced combination of durability, comfort, and performance. Jun 19, 2020 · Black Diamond BD41016960 Raven Ice Axe with Grip 60 cm Visit the BLACK DIAMOND Store 4. Th Sep 20, 2014 · Our Rating: As with many products designed by Black Diamond, the Raven Pro is a fine example of functional and appealing design. The pick angle is aggressive enough to climb steep alpine ice and easy mixed but the bend in the shaft designed such that it still makes it easy to pound pitons, snow pickets and the like. Always use with proper grip and technique to avoid injury. Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe available at Ultralight Outdoor Gear with FREE UK+EU Delivery, in-depth reviews, tech specs & helpful advice. The head is made out of stainless so it never rusts and Our technical mountaineering axethe Raven Pro is lightweight and features a slightly angled and ergonomic trapezoidal shaft for better grip on more aggressive climbing. The pick, adze, and spike geometry allow for secure placements, whether you are kicking steps up Aconcagua or winding through crevasse fields on Rainer Sep 13, 2016 · Amazon. com : Black Diamond BD41017150 Raven Pro Ice Axe 50 cm : Sports & OutdoorsSafety Information WARNING: Handle with care. Qualified orders eligible for FREE S&H and FREE RETURNS. Feb 1, 2024 · Find the best ice axe for your mountain climbing and winter adventures. 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 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. Both seem destined to become familiar sights on winter crags in the coming seasons, but which is the axe for you? We Feb 17, 2025 · Other than its price, the Black Diamond Raven Pro - a classic ice axe with some welcome updates - has just two minor downsides. C. It can perform almost all the functions you need in an ice axe and is well within a reasonable budget. Jan 29, 2024 · Compare Glacier Ice Axes: Petzl, Camp X-Light, & Black Diamond. Sep 8, 2016 · Are the new Vipers good enough for Dave to swap them from his old ones? Completely redesigned for maximum versatility on the myriad demands of winter climbing, the Black Diamond Viper Ice Tool is an easy-swinging, all-around tool. He tested the Black Diamond Reactor ice tools and concluded that the Reactors are ideal for steep ice and cragging, awarding them a solid four stars. The Raven Ultra is a B-rated axe with an 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. Apr 14, 2021 · Black Diamond Reactor Ice Tools – steep featured ice! This is a short preliminary run-down of the Reactors based on the few days I used them towards the end of the season and I’ll post a full in depth review after a few more days next winter. The first sensations holding the axe are surprising if you are accustomed to using an equivalent competitor’s model. Shop for Ice Axes at REI - Browse our extensive selection of trusted outdoor brands and high-quality recreation gear. This pairing strikes a great balance of performance, Sep 15, 2017 · The Raven Ultra, whilst still shiny and new An ice axe for those who don’t want to carry and ice axe Buying an ice axe that’s optimized to be light weight is a funny development in the world of climbing. Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe | Review | Overview Kevin & Carly 14. com : Black Diamond BD41016975 Raven Ice Axe with Grip 75 cm : Sports & OutdoorsCurrently unavailable. After years of renting, I’m finally ready to purchase my own ice axe for summits in the area (Adams, Hood, Helens, Rainier). Designed to be easily used by most mountain enthusiasts, and to function quite well in a number of environments, this is a great all-around choice for your next ice axe. com : Black Diamond BD41016965 Raven Ice Axe with Grip 65 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 Jun 19, 2020 · Product Description 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. Feb 1, 2018 · Ice axe picks add security for self-arresting, glacier travel, and daggering up hill when terrain pushes the steep. The TRIGREST and GRIPREST … The Reactor Ice Tool is the new technical ice axe from Black Diamond, designed for ice climbing and steep mixed climbing. The single main compartment allows for easy packing and accommodates irregularly shaped items well. Compared to other axes the weight is night and day. The Venom Ice Axe/Hammer combines the technical precision of an ice tool with the classic alpine functionality of a piolet. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Dec 21, 2022 · Personally I think anyone genuinely interested in improving their swing for pure ice should start / or have a good go with axes like these as it requires so much technique to get right which makes a world of difference when transitioning to lighter tools. Reviews, ratings, and price comparisons covering 40+ mountaineering axes, ice tools, crampons, and other ice and snow gear. For these users, the Black Diamond Whippet is a classic standby in the steep skiing world. ) system. com : Black Diamond BD41016870 Raven Ice Axe 70 cm : Sports & OutdoorsCurrently unavailable. We recommend this pack for 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. Feb 2, 2022 · Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe Review Philip Werner February 2, 2022 Winter Hiking Gear I use a Black Diamond Raven Ice axe in winter when climbing mountains. Modern updates include a lighter feel, redesigned geometry, and a better handle whether you're ascending steep, icy couloirs or traversing glaciers. Nov 21, 2022 · Black Diamond retools their lightweight technical tools with ice climbing capabilities in the new Venom LT axes. Top quality, great selection and expert advice you can trust. The Hydra ice tool is a modular ice axe that is as versatile as the mountains themselves. Find out why. The Black Diamond Whippet ski pole offers a compromise — part ski pole, part ice axe. 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. I first learned to climb on the prophets, and after a few years and many other tools I came back to them as my go-to tool for anything less than grade 4. You can view Winter and Alpine Hardware Review – Part 1: Classic Ice Axes and Crampons by clicking here. It’s incredibly light and versatile. Oct 2, 2020 · The Black Diamond Raven is a very simple, but classic ice axe. With that said, we still call the Summit a comfortable ice axe to carry. Perhaps most impressive is its ability to mate with the Black Diamond Transfer Shovel Blade, negating the need to bring both a heavy shovel handle and an ice axe. 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 Jun 19, 2020 · Amazon. Enter the Black Diamond Hydra - a highly refined and versatile tool - and the DMM Cortex - a strikingly burly yet lightweight workhorse. Mar 22, 2019 · The Black Diamond Raven Pro is the lighter cousin of the mega-popular Raven. Black Diamond also updated the pic, adze, and spike geometry for greater security in shallow placements. They have the craftsmanship of a Ferrari and the burl of an eighteen wheel truck. Feb 14, 2015 · Read our review of the Black Diamond Raven Pro, a very lightweight ice axe with a sleek design that's good for hillwalking. Sep 13, 2009 · The Cobras perform brilliantly on big routes and ice falls, with even better looks. Aaron’s favorite hybrid ice axe is the Black Diamond Venom. May 8, 2002 · This review is for the aluminum version, which is almost identical save for the weight. Mar 9, 2024 · 3. The Raven Pro has all the same features but is two ounces lighter and a bit more expensive. 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. With the separately sold I. With the benefit of the aluminium shaft, it cuts down on the weight without sacrificing the strength of the axe. Completely redesigned for maximum versatility on the myriad demands in winter climbing, the Black Diamond Viper Hammer Ice Tool is an easy-swinging, all-around tool. The new Raven Pro is a technical mountaineering axe that is now lighter and has a slightly angled and ergonomically-improved trapezoidal shaft for a better grip and more aggressive climbing. Its balance and its ICE pick allow solid placements on any type of ice. From the leader in ice climbing gear. The stainless steel head features a fully interchangeable pick design compatible with any Black Diamond pick, an integrated grip and asymmetrical angled shaft for security and easy handling when swinging it like an ice tool, and a sliding FlickLock® pommel for an The Black Diamond Raven Ultra Ice Axe is an easy-to-carry, relatively strong, and lightweight option for those who want to save weight on extended trips, and want a convenient axe to carry efficiently. Such is the case with Black Diamond's Venom ice axe. We don't know when or if this item will be back in stock. The updated pick and adze Check great and honest reviews! BUY Black Diamond Venom Ice Axe. The shaft and head are T-rated for the most demanding use, and the hand guard with a rubber grip ensures powerful penetration and a Jul 19, 2025 · Tech Specs Raven Pro Ice Axe Black Diamond's Raven Pro is a technical mountaineering axe redesigned with a slight curve for a greater performance whether you're kicking steps up the steeps or traversing icy crevasses. 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 Jun 24, 2014 · It is the tool of choice when my kids are practicing self-arrest. Climb higher with the Black Diamond Raven ice axe with Grip. Watch video Feb 23, 2021 · Black Diamond's revised Raven Pro features a number of updates over the previous version. Read our review of the Black Diamond and Grivel ice axes. The UKC team looks at high performing ice axes from top brands such as Petzl, DMM, Black Diamond, Grivel and Edelrid. Jun 9, 2017 · Black Diamond's whippet is another tool to make moving in the mountains easier. The Venom directly addresses the dilemma of having to choose between a general mountaineering axe and a technical ice tool. The investment-cast, curved, stainless steel head's shape improves handling for traverses, and it has a large hole for carabiners of any size. Overall, the Black Diamond Ice Axe is an excellent choice if you're looking for a dependable tool for technical climbs. Its robust materials and ergonomic design make it an excellent option for tackling difficult routes with ease. Effective for basic ice and glacier travel, you could use it for more technical climbing, but I wouldn’t push my luck with it. It’s known for its lightweight design and solid performance. A stiff outer material and the padded back panel provide pack rigidity, preventing ballooning. Jan 16, 2013 · Black Diamond Cobra Ice Tool Gear Review – by Eric Whewell The Black Diamond Cobras are my favorite ice tools on the market. Strip off the pommel and hammer attachments, swap out the pick (not included), and you’ve got yourself a svelte Venom LT Classic Independent ice tool reviews by real outdoors people. Jul 25, 2025 · The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe With Grip is a well-designed and reliable tool for general mountaineering and glacier travel. 9 ounces ‘Know Thyself’ is a great motto when it comes to choosing between aluminum and steel ice axes. In this regard, it competes squarely with the DMM Spire Tech. The investment-cast, one-piece stainless steel head provides a secure and comfortable grip, ensuring 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. The Venom’s stainless steel head features a fully interchangeable pick design that is compatible with any Black Diamond pick Features: The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a traditional mountaineering piolet. 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. 8 out of 5 - 11 reviews - outdoorreview. The investment-cast, curved, stainless steel head's shape Aug 1, 2025 · The long-anticipated wait is over; the Black Diamond Hydra is here. The only downside while riding is the axe is very sharp, so while attached to your backcountry pack make sure you have Jan 17, 2024 · If you want a classic mountaineering axe, look no further than the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe. The rubber coated hourglass shaft give you loads of confidence in low dagger position and lets you shove that heavy black Mar 6, 2025 · Two new axes are turning heads this season - the Black Diamond Hydra and the DMM Cortex. Updated blade and Apr 24, 2022 · I review the Black Diamond Slinger Ice Axe leash in this video. It's burly, and its heft does have several benefits when it comes to digging snow anchors, pounding pickets, swinging it into firm snow, and inspiring confidence. . I have used these tools almost exclusively for the last four seasons on a variety of objectives. Black Diamond now produce a whole range of outdoor gear, including head torches, clothing and even skis, but they’re still probably best known for their high-quality hardware. The tech pick provides precision on rock routes, as the hammer attachment pounds in pitons with ease. Apr 22, 2022 · I review the Black Diamond Slinger Ice Axe leash in this video. 32K subscribers Subscribed Black Diamond Black Prophet Bent Ice Tools user reviews : 3. Shop crampons, ice axes, ice screws, pick axes & more ice tools today. When your mountaineering requires a little pick swinging, but not enough to justify a hybrid tool like the Black Diamond The Black Diamond Venom is a capable model that excels at a broad spectrum of mountaineering objectives. From waterfall ice to technical mixed climbing, the Black Diamond Hydra Ice tool can be customized to match your mission, thanks to its Integrated Component Exchange (I. Sep 12, 2018 · The Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe weighs 13 oz. It is a simple, well-made, T-rated axe that will cover you from hillwalking into climbing. 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. The curved aluminum shaft provides additional clearance when ascending steep colouirs, and the stainless Check out our complete line of ice climbing gear: ice tools, crampons, ice protection, packs and more. If you are in the market for some technical tools, this is the review for you. 5 21 ratings | Search this page Price: $129. 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. Shop for ice axes at Whittaker Mountaineering. If you're going to be flirting with rock or ice (as opposed to snow), Black Diamond's lightweight Raven Ultra makes a strong case for steel. Consult local regulations for safe disposal. Dec 31, 2018 · The Petzl QUARK is a versatile ice axe designed for technical mountaineering and for ice climbing. Explore Black Diamond's ice & alpine climbing equipment for your next mountain adventure. Perfect for light-and-fast ski mountaineering and alpine climbs, the Black Diamond Venom Adze ice axe offers an interchangeable pick, sliding FlickLock pommel and ergonomically shaped, angled shaft. Keep away from children. The two main methods of pole storage are unique, and both have their benefits. Built with a durable, aircraft-grade aluminum shaft, this ice axe offers a lightweight yet robust solution for navigating through challenging environments. The pick, adze and spike geometry have been updated for even more secure placements wherever you are climbing while the investment-cast, polished stainless-steel head gives you dependable durability. It is supreme on low angled ice. I kept having to look back to make sure the axe was attached. A conventional ice axe pick is not quite steep enough to get a good bite into ice. 95-$219. My trusty Black Diamond Vipers have been a trusty companion for all my winter adventures throughout… Amazon. Both seem destined to become familiar sights on our winter crags, but which is the one for you? We put them head to head to see how they stack up for UK climbers. Nov 10, 2021 · The Black Diamond Raven with Grip is a handsome-looking ice axe with a straight shaft and elegantly shaped and comfortable head, thanks to the cutaway sections for the fingers and thumb. 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. Technical Axes/Tools As we 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. A traditional mountaineering ice axe, the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe with Grip features a new dual-density grip on the lower part of the handle and an updated Slider Leash for added security and versatility. Jul 15, 2025 · The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe features a durable, trapezoidal cross-section, aircraft-grade aluminum shaft, providing a comfortable and secure grip. Not only does the rubber provide better grip when you're swinging the Raven on 60-degree neve, it also insulates your hands from the metal shaft to eliminate chilled fingers. A replaceable Hot Forged Tech LT Pick is combined with an ergonomic forged aluminum head and the grippy grooved shaft tapers to a replaceable The Black Diamond BD41016860 Raven Ice Axe (60 cm) is a popular ice axe for climbers and mountaineers. “If you’re after an all-purpose ice axe that’s strong, lightweight and versatile, then the Venom is the one to go for…” The Venom Ice Axe is a great example. I’m typically never winter climbing, and summiting during the March - Sept mountaineering season. It’s a lot of glacier with the ability to climb fairly steep slopes without smashing your hands. 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. Jan 20, 2012 · When leashless became the new game and all the companies started pouring out new axes to go outside and overhang on mixed routes, and when we all started needing more clearance from our ice axes Black Diamond invented the Fusion. Apr 11, 2024 · In the THR testing/my quiver these days, I have the following tools: Petzl Gully (set), Blue Ice Akila (set), Black Diamond Venom LT (set), Camp Corsa Nanotech, Blue Ice Hummingbird, and Black Diamond Venom Hammer. Redesigned and lighter, the Raven with Grip features a high-precision cast stainless steel striking head offering better ergonomics and increased comfort while walking. 4K subscribers Subscribed Feb 9, 2025 · Black Diamond's Raven is a classic ice ace based off Chouinard's original pick. 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. For 5 years now (give or take) they taken me everywhere. Perfect? Untrue. This UIAA and CE-certified axe is built for ultralight versatility in the mountains, with its athletic weight, replaceable pick and spike, and ability to “add on” a hammer. 3 14 ratings Feb 23, 2025 · Some backcountry skiers and ski mountaineers want a tool with the potential to replace an ice axe for steep snow climbing, and that can add to their ability to arrest a fall in steep terrain while skiing down. The 40-liter version hits the sweet spot for a truly versatile pack. Ice axes may also be overkill in some circumstances, unwieldy, or dangerous to use while skiing. Will Sim tests the ultimate carbon fibre tool for leashless mixed, ice and alpine climbing from Black Diamond The Venom LT Tech Axe has a few tricks up its sleeve, and it’s sure to impress even the most curmudgeonly Black Diamond fans. The Raven Pro, along with the rest of the Raven family, are among the most comfortable ice axes to carry. Feb 23, 2021 · Black Diamond's revised Raven Pro features a number of updates over the previous version. Dec 11, 2019 · The Black Diamond Swift is a stout ice axe that excels on complex glacier routes and steep snow climbs. Nov 15, 2024 · Our review of the Black Diamond Hydra found it swings just as good as the best of them. com Ultralight and modular, Black Diamond's Venom Light Tech Ice Axe is a versatile ice tool that helps us traverse steep routes. May 1, 2014 · The ice axe handles well for self arrests and does not seem to suffer in mixed terrains on rocks. com : BLACK DIAMOND Raven Pro Ice Axe : Sports & OutdoorsVisit the BLACK DIAMOND Store 4. 9 Star Rating on 10 Reviews for Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe Free 2 Day Shipping + Free Shipping over $49. Black Diamond Venom Suitable for: Hiking Trekking General Mountaineering Technical Mountaineering Glacier travelling Climbing The Black Diamond Venom is a hybrid ice axe which is suitable for both technical mountaineering and general mountaineering. It can also be used for hiking, glacier travelling and other activities on icy trails and slopes. Independent ice/snow climbing device reviews by real outdoors people. E. Secure axe when not in use. Oct 26, 2017 · Black Diamond Raven The Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe offers a lightweight alternative to some of the heavier and more cumbersome ice axes available on the market today. Available in seven shaft lengths, the Raven can accommodate shorter folks and kids to those who are Best Ice Axes Reviewed 2025 'An essential safety tool for travelling through winter mountains' - here are some of the best ice axes on the market, including options from Black Diamond, DMM, Salewa and more Jun 19, 2020 · Amazon. The Fuel is one of the best all-round ice tools for short and tall ice and mixed climbs. As gear gets lighter and expeditions get faster, it puts a fresh lens onto the eternal question of balancing performance, weight and cost. Note: Black Diamond will be releasing new ice tools over several seasons starting next winter. 86 Free Returns on some sizes and colors Cover the sharp points of your ice tools for safe transport with the Black Diamond Ice Axe Protector. Jul 17, 2025 · 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. Engineered to handle technical terrain and equipped with an interchangeable pick, the Black Diamond Venom LT Tech ice Axe is an ultralight tool for ski-mountaineering missions and alpine rock routes. Gear Review Black Diamond Raven Ultra steel pick and spike general mountaineering 50, 55, 60cm sizes 12. It combines the classic mountaineer's axe, the Raven, with a dual-density rubber grip and Slider leash for security and versatility. Jan 12, 2023 · The Black Diamond Raven Pro ice axe is one of my favorites just because of how sleek the design is. The curved shaft enhances handling efficiency, while the replaceable pick and spike allow customization and boost The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a quintessential mountaineering tool, expertly crafted to tackle classic climbs and icy expeditions. 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. Dec 30, 2018 · Todd Preston is a geologist for the US Geological Survey who has been ice climbing for 20 years. accessories, this ice axe can be configured to perfectly match our needs. The ergonomic, stainless steel head has a flat top and hourglass shape at its connection to the shaft. May 11, 2025 · Half technical ice tool and half classic piolet, the Black Diamond Venom Adze Ice Axe is ideal for steep alpine climbs and ski mountaineering routes where some overhead swinging may be involved. Jun 19, 2020 · Amazon. Jul 8, 2015 · If you have ever wondered if you need an ice axe, the answer is yes and this is probably the one you need. If you’re looking for an ultra light ice axe it’s hard to go past it. 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. It's offered in lengths from 55 cm to 90 cm. 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. Spare picks are inexpensive and you don’t have a hammer or adze to deal with on pure ice routes. Aaron’s favorite glacier ice axe is the Black Diamond Raven Pro. And for those looking to streamline the gear, BD offers up a slick new shovel, the Transfer LT. The investment-cast, one-piece stainless-steel head includes a large hole for carabiner attachment. On Mount Hood I climbed the final chute using the Venom like an ice tool, learning how the curve of the shaft made the strike angle more aggressive resulting in better traction. The stainless steel head is designed for years of dependable use. But its modularity is where it really shines. Mar 21, 2019 · The Glacier penetrates firm snow effectively, whether our testers were swinging in mid-dagger or low dagger position, better than nearly all of the other sub $100 ice axes like the Black Diamond Raven and Raven Ultra. Mar 21, 2019 · The Summit is one of the more comfortable ice axes to carry in our review, just barely edged out by the Black Diamond's family of ice axes. Best of all, it is aggressively priced compared to most of its modular or higher-performing competition. 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. This pairing strikes a great balance of performance, In this special edition, I review the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe and take it to the cliffs near my side to see how well it fairs in sandy coastal bluffs. Oct 16, 2024 · Black Diamond's Hydra Ice Tool is a true modular system that can be configured to match any mission, from pure ice to technical alpine, to mixed comp climbing. Modern updates include a lighter feel, redesigned geometry, and a better handle whether you're ascending steep, icy couloirs or traversing glaciars. Engineered as an ultralight tool that can handle technical terrain, the Venom LT Tech excels on ski mountaineering missions and alpine rock routes. Shop Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe | 4. Jan 28, 2022 · We put ice axes to the test from brands like Petzl, Black Diamond, Grivel, and more to find the best 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. Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe available at Ultralight Outdoor Gear with FREE UK+EU Delivery, in-depth reviews, tech specs & helpful advice. A bead-blasted and anodised aluminium shaft and highly polished stainless steel head and ferrule present the Raven as a no-nonsense, elegant Dec 8, 2022 · It’s priced competitively and have a tacky grip. Translucent TPU, quickly adjustable and fits most any tool. 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 Jan 12, 2004 · Product Description The Black Diamond ice axes head protector is a must have accessory for your ice axes. Mar 2, 2019 · Black Diamond Reactor review? Then this is the right climbing gear review video! I will ask the question, whether the Black Diamond Reactor (2019) the best ice axe for ice climbing right now? So Jun 19, 2020 · Amazon. This high-performing all-arounder is most at home on moderate waterfall ice, steep snow routes, and complex glacier climbs, where most of its design will truly shine. Reviews, ratings, and price comparisons covering 10+ ice tools. com : Black Diamond Equipment Raven Ice Axe with Grip - 70 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 CEN-B certified May 13, 2021 · The Black Diamond Speed series is an excellent range of reliable backpacks optimized for climbing, mountaineering, and even ski mountaineering. Overall the most comfortable ice axe I could find and gets the job done when it counts. Built for ultralight versatility in the mountains, the Black Diamond Venom LT Classic ice axe is compatible with a range of add-ons, making it technically adept on a variety of snow travel. Mar 16, 2025 · The Black Diamond Swift is one of the best ice axes on test over the past few years. 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 Oct 17, 2023 · David Lintern awards the Black Diamond Swift ice axe his 'Best Buy' in tests during winter 2023. An all-around mountaineering axe will be used for many Explore Black Diamond's ice & alpine climbing equipment for your next mountain adventure. Jun 14, 2019 · As mentioned in the introduction, Black Diamond really nailed it with the geometry of the new Venom ice axe. 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. wsrnuta qiqjey kqnii mosbjs ubujo woyjzm ofrnjw too wndf mgoqrl
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