Picking the Best Ice Axe

Picking the Best Ice Axe



We looked at 14 different ice axes and compared them head-to-head in the following categories: self-arresting, anchor digging, step chopping, use as improvised anchor, steep ice and snow climbing, and comfort to carry. We also looked at their advanta...



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Petzl Sum'Tec
$175
100
0
85
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Editors' Choice
Petzl Summit
$160
100
0
87
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Editors' Choice
CAMP Corsa
$120
100
0
57
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Editors' Choice
Black Diamond Venom
$140
100
0
90
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Best Buy
Black Diamond Raven
$80
100
0
86
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Best Buy
Petzl Snowracer
$80
100
0
71
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Best Buy
Black Diamond Raven Ultra
$110
100
0
80
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Recommended
Black Diamond Raven Pro
$100
100
0
86
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Recommended
Grivel Air Tech Evolution
$180
100
0
88
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
SMC Capra
$75-$86
100
0
79
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Ushba Altai Titanium
$239.00
100
0
76
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Petzl Snowalker
$90
100
0
77
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
CAMP Neve
$80
100
0
74
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
REI Yeti
$75
100
0
79
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
We believe the best gear reviews are those that objectively compare and contrast. Read more about our gear review philosophy and process here.