The Viper is designed for really steep ice but makes a very good Scottish mixed axe too. Probably the best all-rounder on the market at a reasonable price.
At first glance it doesn't look much different from all the other bent shafted ice axes on the market but there are some key differences that make it more suitable for mixed climbing - other axes have some of these things, but few have all of them.
The adze has a serrated edge which means it can be torqued into wider cracks and the edge will bite and grip on the edge of the crack. The ferule has a good sized hole in and so does the head - either of which could be utilised by those who want to climb leashless but use spring leashes to prevent their axes hitting the deck if they drop one. The Ferule works well despite the hand rest and there is an upper hand rest for changing hands when climbing leashless.
The shaft has been made like a hollow T-girder using a process known as hydroforming which uses pressurised water to expand the metal. This increases stiffness and reduces weight, while maintaining good clearance.
NB This is a Special Scottish Mixed Version - that is large adze, Titan (ice/mixed) pick and no leash (though a Lock Down or Android Leash can easily be added). Also comes equipped with Viper Fang (hand rest) and Strike (upper hand rest).
The shaft is 'T' Rated.
Approximate Weight 702g.