High Sierra Topix

Might be a little late for this, but how does one choose an ice axe? I have an old wooden handled one. Yes outdated.

What are good Ice axes to consider?

http://www.sierradescents.com/gear/ice/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

but which one and why?

http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/ice+axe.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Sorry Russ, thought you just needed reviews, Markskor already posted my next post.

np.. just wondered who here had what and why? I know it's different for different folks based on what they're attempting..

I have the same question. Say you are heading over a 12-13,000 foot pass this summer (say second week of August) and there's lots of snow. Lots more than encountered same time last year on the same sorts of passes. As of August, the herd will be passing through,but the trail probably be refreezes overnight. You could wait till the afternoon and the snow softens up, depending on the day. Say you want some back up. Straight axe? Crampons? Its a mighty funny year out there. Your sage opinions are appreciated.

Im trying out a grivel g1-74cm.Its one of the longer sizes but it feels comfortable-im 5 11.Using it for hiking use-not mountaineering.

I've carried an ice axe for safety when combined with crampons for hard packed snow or glacier ascents. The old adage, as I was informed, was to buy an axe based on holding the head loosely in your hand, with your arm at your side...and in this position the tip of the axe handle should be about at your ankle. That would be the first axe I bought (a Black Diamond).

Then, after a few outings I realized that I rarely used the thing as a sort of walking stick going up glaciers (thus the length described above), so I bought another axe which is somewhat shorter and lighter. The short and light axe provides the same safety (given of course one actually knows how to use it and has practiced self arrests, etc.).

Wow, looks like three of us replied at about the same time.