ICE AXES

Photo: Colin Wells on the classic Pretty Nuts (WI 4), Rocky Mountains, Canada.

How to pick a climbing axe (if you'll forgive the pun) is one of the more difficult questions that faces the would be winter climber. What feels right to you is likely to feel very wrong to the next person. If you are unable to borrow axes to try before you buy, then the following may help.

Think of an axe as a weight on the end of a long stick. Hold the shaft right at its base (this is where you would normally hold an axe when winter climbing) and wave the tool in the air. If it feels heavy and unweildy or alternatively light and insubstantial then try a different model or try different shaft lengths of the same model. Basically what feels correct is a function of your own strength. Buy an axe that is too heavy and you will get pumped half-way up a pitch; buy one that is too light and you will curse as it bounces off hard ice! Needless to say it is rather difficult to do this over the internet........

'T' & 'B' Ratings: Ice axes are either 'T' or 'B' rated, but all climbing axes are 'T' rated. Confusingly though picks for ice axes are also either 'T' or 'B' rated. 'T' rated picks are heavier duty and are designed for Scottish winter and alpine mixed climbing, but are also suitable for icefalls, whilst 'B' rated picks have finer blades and are only suitable for pure water ice climbing. For UK use we would recommend the use of 'T' rated picks as 'B' rated picks may not be strong enough for mixed climbing.

Probably the sexiest looking iceaxe on the planet, the Cobra is designed for hard water ice climbs and technical alpine routes.

The lightweight carbon fibre shaft gives it the most clearance of any of BD's tools without sacrificing balance. It also reduces the overall weight by over 100 grams over the previous version. The carbon fibre shaft keeps the majority of the tool’s weight in the head. Carbon fibre also provides vibration-free placements with minimal flex, a damp, balanced swing and wrist-flick first time placements. A rubber grip is built in to the Cobra’s lower shaft for a secure, precise grip.

Comes equipped with Laser Pick, removable Fang and Strike and Android Clipper Leash (not shown).

608g not including leash.

Special offer - buy a matched pair (axe and hammer) at 10% off!!  

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Type Axe Hammer Pair @10% off Type Stock Axe 1 Hammer 0

Officially the sexiest looking axe on the market! Well designed and well balanced replacement for the Xeno. The price doesn't look quite so bad when you realise it includes a "trigger", and "grip rest" bits as an integral part of the design. Fitted with a B-rated icefall pick.

775g.

NB Leash NOT included.

Special offer - buy a matched pair (axe and hammer) at 10% off!!  

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Rebel (without a leash) Type Axe Hammer Pair @10% off Type Stock Axe 2 Hammer 2

A good clipper leash that uses a mini-wiregate krab system to clip into a large hole in the axe. It could be used for other axes that have a suitable hole in them like the Grivel X Monster.

... or buy a pair and save a tenner - for some strange reason! 

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Type Left-Hand Right-Hand Pair £49.99! Type Stock Left-Hand 1 Right-Hand 1 Pair £49.99! 1

Very light but strong axe for alpine climbers. Aerospace grade composite. Hot forged head in chromolly steel: microstructure can be oriented to improve strength, and internal defects or porosity are minimized. Carbon Composite shaft: means that the parts of the final product subject to major pressure that require more strength and rigidity can be designed specifically to enhance these characteristics. This vital aspect is made possible by the type of reinforcement and the orientation of the fibres, and the light alloy matrix transfers load to the external reinforcement in carbon fibre. Steel ferule.

Leash not supplied. The shaft is quite slippery and without much grip, so it wiill benefit from some Petzl Griptape (see below).

498g.

One pair only at £189.98!! A bargain - were £149.99 each!!

NB Changing Monster Picks on newer Grivel axes is a nightmare! Grivel say that to get the axes through their CE test they have had to hammer flat the bolts where they protude above the nut. When you look closely you will see that this has been done on one bolt most obviously but in fact all three are affected. To change a pick, first you need to file flat the squashed protruding bits of the bolts. Then change the pick using the new bolts supplied, then (in theory) bash the bolt ends flat. Not something to undertake in the field! 

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Type Pair @ £189.98

The Viper is designed for really steep ice. The key feature of the Viper is its minor-axis shaft orientation which gives this tool more clearance (without sacrificing stability) so you’ll spend less time swinging and more time climbing. A moulded hourglass grip is perfect for smaller hands and a contoured finger rest supports the hand, reducing fatigue and adding control. Complete with BD Lock Down leash leash (see leashes section below).

BD have evolved this technical, all-terrain tool with a new hydroformed shaft to increase stiffness and reduce weight, while maintaining exceptional clearance. Hydroforming uses pressurized water to expand the Viper’s shaft into its uniquely stiff, yet lightweight shape. With superb balance, leashless capability, the Viper goes most anywhere. Comes equipped with Viper Fang and Strike (see Accessories Section below) to cradle your hands for precise gripping when going leashless. Also comes equipped with a Laser Pick.

If you wish to buy this axe with an Android (clipper) Leash rather than a standard leash please contact us as we can refund you the cost of the standard leash.

645g not including leash.

Special offer - buy a matched pair (axe and hammer) at 10% off!!  

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Type Axe Hammer Pair @10% off Type Stock Axe 2 Hammer 2

An updated version of the famous Quasar and the ultimate in steep ice tools - according to some. Beautiful balance and feel. B rated icefall pick. Here's what Charlet/Petzl say about it: " The curved upper handle of the Quark gives excellent clearance that facilitates placements in sculpted ice flows, and delicate mantles while negotiating overhangs and changes of incline. The axe's weight distribution allows the force to be focused onto the pick and facilitates straight-arm placements.The forged pick is thinner at the tip and has bevelled teeth to help prevent the ice shattering. The many teeth that run along the underside of the pick ensure stability regardless of the ice's thickness. The steep angle of the first tooth makes for better placements in thin ice and hooking onto the tiniest of edges. The teeth running along the inside of the pick's curve ensure sound hook placements. The entire length of the dual density grip is smooth to allow the climber to grip the base of the handle to maximize the axe's reach. The small size of the spike helps the climber prevent snagging the wall face while swinging the tool."
And you thought it was just about ice climbing!

In use we have found this axe to be one of the best icefall axes on the market.

Includes Clipper Leash and the new Griprest hook system at the base of the shaft (for leashless climbing - well maybe!).

Weight: 645 g (760g including leash).

Special offer - buy a matched pair (axe and hammer) at 10% off!!  

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Type Axe Hammer Pair @10% off Type Stock Axe 4 Hammer 4

Leashless ice climbing pointy thing for the masses. No adze, no hammer, and the wiggliest shaft imaginable - most definitely not for trad Scottish. Very Stevie Haston. Includes rubber strippy bits that you can adapt into grips with duct tape. Gaudy patterns vary. Leash NOT included (geez - if you need to ask they're definitely not for you - for heaven's sake... ).

What Grivel say, "All the accepted rules about climbing equipment were upset during the 2004-2005 season by Monster. Lots of Grivel competitors tried to stop this stampede even using underhand methods. But the concept was right and today the less extreme X Monster has arrived. The shaft is slightly straighter and the grip is better for vertical walls (the Monster on the other hand was perfect for overhangs) its multi-grip design lets the climber’s imagination run wild. A thinner pick for fragile ice. A shorter pick as the continuity between pick and shaft can anchor in deep as there’s nothing to stop the blade fitting in between two columns or in narrow cracks. The flexible shaft that so many climbers have recently discovered makes anchoring into cracks, including non vertical ones, easier and safer. Just remember the progress made on changing from rigid to flexible vaulting poles! The rear is almost a hammer shaped like nuts, ideal for anchoring and torqueing in larger cracks on mixed terrain. A hole in the shaft can be used to attach a leash. Tiny anti-slip claw at the end of the shaft. Modern graphics and accessible prices for those with limited funds typical of today’s younger generation. CE certification as a category 2 PPE."

In use we have found this to be an excellent axe, and a very good way of getting started out leashless if you have not done it before, in fact it could convert you completely! However, it can also easily be converted to a clipper leash axe by using any old leash and a lightweight wiregate krab like a DMM Prowire. The krab will clip in the hole in the shaft and is easy to work with gloves on.

New for 2008/9 - this tool is also available with an Adze (or Shovel as the Italians call it).

695g.

Special offer - buy a matched pair at 10% off!!

NB Changing Monster Picks on newer Grivel axes is a nightmare! Grivel say that to get the axes through their CE test they have had to hammer flat the bolts where they protude above the nut. When you look closely you will see that this has been done on one bolt most obviously but in fact all three are affected. To change a pick, first you need to file flat the squashed protruding bits of the bolts. Then change the pick using the new bolts supplied, then (in theory) bash the bolt ends flat. Not something to undertake in the field! 

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Type X Monster Hammer X Monster Adze Pair Hammers @10% off Pair Adze + Hammer @10% off Type Stock X Monster Hammer 4 X Monster Adze 2

This is the bendy rubber strip supplied with Monster axes, from which you can fashion extra grips for the shafts.

Supplied in pairs.  

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Or as it would be known in Cumbria, Lal Monster. Designed mainly for icefall climbing schools we suspect - especially those teaching children.

One only at a bargain price - was £79.99!! 

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Type Lil' Monster Type Stock Lil' Monster 0

The latest, and one of the current market leaders, in the rapid development of leashless tools. Three ways to grip the handle. Weight is distributed towards the tip of the pick: efficient swing, powerful striking and precise placements. Pick designed to correspond to the handle's multiple grips: each grip position corresponds to a specific tooth on the pick for increased holding power, geometry is engineered to reduce pick shift when changing hand positions, stable placements. Grip size can be adjusted: three positions to accommodate different hand sizes or glove combinations. Griptape on the upper handle provides better grip and thermal insulation. Pick weights can be removed to lighten tool.
635g.

Special offer - buy a matched pair at 10% off!!  

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Type Hammer Pair @10% off Type Stock Hammer 2

An excellently priced leashless tool designed for ice, but also OK for continental style dry tooling. Seen being tested in Canada in winter 2005/6 and reported to be BD's best leashless tool yet. Built with dual-density plastic, the dual-pommel grip accommodates larger hands or thick gloves and makes hand swap overs simple. A weight-saving micro hammer, combined with an aluminum shaft, makes this quite light too, though it still has that reassuringly solid BD feel to it. Laser Pick included. 675g.

Special offer - buy a matched pair at 10% off!!  

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Type Hammer Pair @10% off Type Stock Hammer 4

A very lightened up Quark, more suitable for Scottish mixed climbing but handy on ice-falls as well. Thin forged B-rated pick shaped for optimized penetration in hard ice.
The shaft is curved at the head, allows hooking and comfortable placement whilst he base of the shaft is straight and has a steel point for easier penetration in snow. Ergonomic handle. Supplied with Freelock leash. 580g (630g including leash).

Special offer - buy a matched pair (axe and hammer) at 10% off!!  

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Type Axe Hammer Pair @10% off Type Stock Axe 2 Hammer 2

A lightened up Aztar, designed for technical alpine and expedition climbing. Supplied with B rated pick suitable for pure ice climbing. Can be used leashless due to the hand rest at the bottom of the shaft, but this can be fairly easily retracted to within the shaft if required. The shaft is curved at the head, to allow hooking and comfortable placement whilst the base of the shaft is straight. Leash not supplied. 500g.

Special offer - buy a matched pair (axe and hammer) at 10% off!!  

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Type Axe Hammer Pair @10% off Type Stock Axe 1 Hammer 1

A Fly with a steep ice type handle making it more suited to Continental water ice than the standard version. Be warned though this axe has a very different "feel" to the standard Fly, and seems quite a lot heavier though there is in fact only 20g difference. Potentially a good crossover axe for those wanting one axe that will do them for Scottish Mixed and Cascade climbing.

Comes complete with DMM's Chokehold Leash, though holes are present to enable a DMM clipper leash system to be fitted. ca 740g inc leash.

Special offer - buy a matched pair (axe and hammer) at 10% off!!  

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Type Axe Hammer Pair @10% off Type Stock Axe 2 Hammer 2

One of the best "all-rounders" on the market. Lightweight steep ice and mixed tool - a reasonable performer on continental ice-falls but better suited to Scottish winter being versatile enough for grade II gullies in Coire Sneachda and grade VIII Buttresses in Coire an Lochain. Interchangable one-piece head with T rated pick. Particularly useful for mixed climbing are the wedge shaped hammer and wavy edged adze, both of which are perfect for jamming in cracks.

Comes complete with DMM's Chokehold Leash.

ca 720g inc leash.

Special offer - buy a matched pair (axe and hammer) at 10% off!!  

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Type Axe Hammer Pair @10% off Type Stock Axe 1 Hammer 1

This cable attaches between the head and cable of a Fly or Superfly axe and enables them to take a clipper leash that attaches via a mini-karabiner, such as DMM's Rebel Leash (see above).

Price is per cable and does not include the clipper leash itself.

Obtained to order only. 

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Good looking, lightweight axe suited to alpine and Scottish mixed climbs, but also looks as though it would perform well on cascades. The Grivel website and the picture are misleading in that the axe actually weighs 620g but it comes with the Grivel Horn (hand rest - easily removed - see below) and Grivel's simple Easy G leash (also see below).

A plus is Grivel's excellent X Monster pick. The downside is that the hammer head is miniscule.

But all in all, an excellent tool for the price.

Special offer - buy a matched pair (axe and hammer) at 10% off!!

NB Changing Monster Picks on newer Grivel axes is a nightmare! Grivel say that to get the axes through their CE test they have had to hammer flat the bolts where they protude above the nut. When you look closely you will see that this has been done on one bolt most obviously but in fact all three are affected. To change a pick, first you need to file flat the squashed protruding bits of the bolts. Then change the pick using the new bolts supplied, then (in theory) bash the bolt ends flat. Not something to undertake in the field! 

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Type Axe Hammer Pair @ 10% off Type Stock Axe 1 Hammer 1

Built to a price-point - as they say, but functional and nicely balanced pair of bent-shafted tools with reverse curve picks, leashes and rubber ferule protectors included. The downside is that you can't change the picks. Price is per axe or hammer, not both!

Weight: 650g approx.

Top tip: having adjusted the leash to a suitable length, it will be worth taping the two bits of the leash together to stop it looping over the axe or hammer head when you don't want it to - you'll see what we mean when you look at them.

Special offer - don't get stung - buy a matched pair (axe and hammer) at 10% off!!  

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Type Axe Hammer Pair @10% off Type Stock Axe 4 Hammer 1

Beautiful lightweight ergonomically designed alpine axe with a very good feel. Comes complete with a Lockdown leash (see below). 493g (excluding leash).

The axe is 57cm long, and the hammer 50cm - a perfect combination for alpine use.

Special offer - buy a pair (axe and hammer) at 10% off!!  

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Type Axe 57cm Hammer 50cm Pair @10% off Type Stock Axe 57cm 1 Hammer 50cm 1

Very smart-looking alpine-type lightweight axe with a forged head. Available in 4 lengths in the axe (48cm, 53cm, 58cm, 66cm) and two in the hammer (48cm, 53cm). We generally only stock the 53cm versions but other lengths are usually available to order. Includes Grivel's excellent basic leash with integral ferule spike protector.

Total Weight with Leash (53cm version): 458g including leash.

Special offer - buy a pair (axe and hammer) at 10% off!! In the drop-down list, axe length is listed first.

NB Some of these are now coming through with rubber handles but it is hit and miss as to which type Grivel send. 

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Type Axe 48cm Axe 53cm Axe 58cm Axe 66cm Hammer 48cm Hammer 53cm Pair @10% off 48/48 Pair @10% off 53/48 Pair @10% off 58/48 Pair @10% off 66/48 Pair @10% off 53/53 Pair @10% off 58/53 Pair @10% off 66/53 Type Stock Axe 48cm 1 Axe 53cm 4 Axe 58cm 0 Axe 66cm 0 Hammer 48cm 1 Hammer 53cm 1

Top end Carbon Composite version of the brilliant AirTech Evo axe.

We normally keep the 53cm length in stock, other lengths are available to order.

53cm version is 473g including leash. 

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Type Axe 48cm Axe 53cm Axe 58cm Axe 66cm Type Stock Axe 48cm 1 Axe 53cm 1 Axe 58cm 1 Axe 66cm 1

Excellent lightweight well-balanced one piece alpine axe. Comes complete with leash. ca 560g inc leash. 

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Type 50cm 55cm 60cm 65cm Type Stock 50cm 0 55cm 0 60cm 2 65cm 1

Attractive walking/mountaineering axe with a very comfortable to carry investment-cast one-piece stainless steel head, rubber grip handle, and a slider leash. ca 570g. 

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Type 55cm 60cm 65cm Type Stock 55cm 1 60cm 1 65cm 0

The Nepal S.A. is a classic mountain axe ice axe ideal for trekking, easy snow climbs, and general hill-walking. The carbon-steel head features a classically inclined pick with teeth along half its length. The body and pick are hot, drop forged in one piece, then the stamped adze is welded to it. The Ergal shaft surpasses UIAA norms for strength and durability; it is coated with tough epoxy-based paint and is slightly curved. Complete with leash and spike protector.

480g for a 58cm, including leash.
 

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Type 58cm 66cm 74cm Type Stock 58cm 2 66cm 2 74cm 1

The Munro is Grivel's Nepal Steel specially adapted for the UK market. Apart from a blue shaft, the axe is standard, but it comes fitted with Grivel's excellent Basic Leash (see below) and is a real bargain.
Please note that this axe does not have a rubber grip on the shaft.
470g (for a 55cm) including leash).
 

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Type 55cm 60cm 65cm 70cm Type Stock 55cm 2 60cm 2 65cm 4 70cm 2

Excellent new concept from Camp of riveting a Sandvik Nanoflex steel pick point onto an alloy blade and shaft giving a very light axe (ca 250g). The ferule also receives the same treatment. These increase durability and allow the axe to be used on mixed ground or hard snow and ice, often the downfall of all aluminium axes. Ideal for ski-touring and alpinists needing an axe to gain the foot of steep rock climbs.

For some reason Camp have chosen not to make a 55cm length in this axe at present, but hopefully they will in the future.

Leash not included. 

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Type 50cm 60cm Type Stock 50cm 2 60cm 3

At just 205gms the lightest axe in the world. Has an aluminium alloy head so not suitable for ice climbing or mixed terrrain. Aimed at easy glacier traverses, ski mountaineering and adventure racing.

For some reason Camp have chosen not to make a 55cm length in this axe at present, but hopefully they will in the future.

Leash not included. 

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Type 50cm 60cm Type Stock 50cm 2 60cm 2

A lightweight telescopic touring axe which can be used for support whilst walking. Ideal for long glacier walks or for trekking on medium to difficult terrain. Replaceable carbide tip. Supplied with a small snow basket which can be removed if need be. Leash not included.
450g. 65cm extendable up to 105cm.


 

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A retro fit trekking pole handle, that fits the top section of most regular trekking poles (eg Leki) and functions as an ice axe for emergency arrest when the fold-away blade is extracted and locked into place.

Suitable for ice axe arrest and daggering easier alpine climbs and ideal for ski-touring in areas where a fall could result in a potentially serious slide.

The only thing that is not very good about it is the leash which fixes near the bottom of the handle rather than at the top - however it might be possible to botch something up with imagination and Duck Tape.

There are currently two versions available:

Handle only. 229g (this would be best for fitting to non-expansion unit poles but only ones where the handle can be easily removed - NB this does not include Black Diamond poles where the handle is very difficult to remove without damaging the pole).

Handle complete with two part pole. 450g. This comes with both a trekking basket and a snow basket.

Please click the image to see a detail of the handle. 

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Type Handle Only £34.99 with 2 Part Pole £59.99 Type Stock Handle Only £34.99 1 with 2 Part Pole £59.99 2

Stop those expensive axes hitting the deck! This clever lightweight (100g) tape, elastic and wiregate krab system is simple to use. Clip or larksfoot the central krab into your harness (or better, a higher point like a chest harness or rucksack strap - one of us here uses a bandolier like loop of thin tape with two loops on it, one that is clipped into his waist harness, and the other at about nipple height that the leash clips into). Clip the other krabs into the ferules or leashes of your axes (may require a loop of cord through the ferule on some axes). Can easily be undone in a tangle.

This works particularly well if you make yourself a bandolier out of 10mm tape or similar. Get a length of tape ca 3m. Tie a loop in one end and clip this loop into a screwgate krab fastened to your harness at the point the ropes attach. Take the tape over your shoulder (left or right) and make another loop at just above nipple height, then bring it round your back and make a final loop to clip it in to the same krab. It's a good idea to put a twist in these loops as you make them, so that they stay open.

Now clip or larksfoot into the chest loop and the other two into somewhere on the leashes of your axes (best not into the loop your hand goes into, and best near the bottom of the leash if possible).

There are many other ways of doing this (eg you can clip the leads straight into your rucksack and dispense with the bandolier but this means you have to have your sack on all the time).

Please click the image to see a picture of the above set up.

NB This latest version has two lightweight krabs (750kg max) to clip to your axes. At the central clip in point there is no krab but the loop is longer so that it can be larksfooted (threaded through itself) or you can put your own krab through it. 

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5+

Stop those expensive axes hitting the deck! This clever lightweight (100g) tape and elastic system is simple to use - just add your own Lightweight Wiregate Krabs such as DMM Phantoms or Camp Nanos. Clip the central krab into your harness (or better, a higher point like a chest harness or rucksack strap - one of us here uses a bandolier-like loop of thin tape with two loops on it, one that is clipped into his waist harness, and the other at about nipple height that the leash clips into). Clip the other krabs into the ferules or leashes of your axes (may require a loop of cord through the ferule on some axes). Can easily be undone in a tangle.

This works particularly well if you make yourself a bandolier out of 10mm tape or similar. Get a length of tape ca 3m. Tie a loop in one end and clip this loop into a screwgate krab fastened to your harness at the point the ropes attach. Take the tape over your shoulder (left or right) and make another loop at just above nipple height, then bring it round your back and make a final loop to clip it in to the same krab. It's a good idea to put a twist in these loops as you make them, so that they stay open.

Now clip the central krab into the chest loop and the other two into somewhere on the leashes of your axes (best not into the loop your hand goes into, and best near the bottom of the leash if possible).

There are many other ways of doing this (eg you can clip the leads straight into your rucksack and dispense with the bandolier but this means you have to have your sack on all the time).

46g. 

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5+

A single version of the spring leash with a lightweight accessory krab at one end and a lark's footable loop at the other. 

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A simple and efficient wrist loop with slider leash suitable for any sort of ice axe with a shaft length of up to 75cm long. The cord loop on the metal slider makes a handy clip-in point but tighten the knot up with pliers prior to use. Needs tying off onto axe head. Fits axes up to 70cm.

32g. 

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This is the leash DMM fit to their more technical axes. It has an ingenious loop which when hitched over adze or hammer in theory enables you to remove your hand from the wristloop without having to use the other hand - please note the word "theory"! Alternatively the loop can be threaded around the shaft so that as you lift your hand up the leash opens allowing you to take your hand out. Suitable for climbing and alpine axes only with a shaft length of up to 55cm long.  

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Charlet's well known wristloop leash with a neoprene slider and double ring buckle to let you adjust the leash length just so. Suitable only for climbing axes that are 45cm or less or have a hole through the shaft at 45cm or less from the top of the ferule. 

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Ingenious plastic double locking-slider system means your wrist is firmly gripped when you want it to be but easily released. Suitable only for climbing and alpine axes that are 55cm or less.

Sorry - this product has been discontinued. 

A new leash from Charlet Moser, though very similar to those made by Grivel, Black Diamond and DMM. The idea is that as you lift your hand upwards the leash opens automatically and you can place ice-screws and other gear before putting your hand back into the open leash and resuming climbing. Like all these things it probably works better in theory than in practice but this one of the smoother ones on the market. Suitable only for climbing and alpine axes that are 55cm or less. 

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A clipper leash giving attachment or removal from the shaft in one simple movement, whilst the leash is closed and adjusted on the wrist. Compact attachment system to reduce the risk of unexpected release. Comfortable due to a padded fabric wrist support. An excellent, easy to use system.

Designed for use with the Quark and the Aztar (the bolt needed is included). Can also be fitted to the Pulsar, Axar and Quasar equipped with a 5 mm hole in the shaft.

Polyamide/polyester webbing. Aluminium clip. 62g.

Price is per leash and includes the axle bolt (that is the bolt that goes through the shaft of the axe and to which the leash clips).
 

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Replacement axle bolt, collar and nut - as per the clipper leash. Enables you to swap Petzl Clipper leashes from one axe to another without having to buy a whole new leash.

Price is for one bolt.

NB: One of these bolts is already included with each Clipper Leash. 

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2

Black Diamond's Lockdown Leash is similar in function to DMM's Chokehold Leash. Suitable only for climbing and alpine axes that are 70cm or less. 

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5+

A simple but comfortable sliding closure leash. Suitable only for climbing and alpine axes that are 70cm or less. Buckles on to axe head.

36g. 

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2

A clipper leash that in the Standard system that will fit just about any 55cm or less technical axe on the market, as it fixes through the hole in the top of the shaft and is kept in place lower down by a strap system. As a clipper leash it suffers slightly from the fact that wet snow can pack in behind the bit you squeeze to unclip it meaning that you suddenly can't unclip them any more - however there isn't much in the way of an alternative for a clipper leash that will fit on any technical axe.

There is a special version for the Black Diamond Viper which bolts through a hole in the shaft, and there are two types of this depending on whether your axe is the silver 2006/7 model or the bronze 2007/8 one - please specify which you require. The latter also fits the carbon fibre Cobra. 

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Type Standard 411135 Viper '06 411137 Cobra/Viper '08 411138 Type Stock Standard 411135 5+ Viper '06 411137 0 Cobra/Viper '08 411138 0

A good clipper leash that uses a mini-wiregate krab system to clip into a large hole in the axe. It could be used for other axes that have a suitable hole in them like the Grivel X Monster. 

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Type Left-Hand Right-Hand Pair £49.99! Type Stock Left-Hand 1 Right-Hand 1 Pair £49.99! 1

Advanced vesion of the Walking Leash with buckle fastener and offset clip-in point. Suitable for most axes. 

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Straight forward axe-leash with simple neoprene slider. Needs tying off onto axe head. Fits almost anything. 

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New leash from Grivel that fits comfortably arond the wrist, but opens up as soon as you move your hand up to the head of the axe. The plus side of this is that it allows you to remove your hand without undoing anything and so place an icescrew more easily. The downside is that it means when you want to use the axe in wlking mode the leash does not work very well. However, probably the best of its type on the market at present. 

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Cunning combination of a standard alpine/walking axe leash with a ferule spike protector captive on the leash hand loop. Never get cursed at in French cable-cars again! Buckles on to axe head.

49g. 

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5+

Clever combination of bandolier/holster and elasticated leash (for walking/alpine axe use only). Includes a safety whistle as well.72g. 

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0

Sliding ring leash for all walking axes - much used on the Continent, but not so common in the UK. Includes stopper retention ring in latex. The rubber tip protector can be used on the ice axe's spike or pick.  

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Keep those sharp pointy things well protected with this ice tool bag that opens like a suitcase. Store and carry safely a pair of ice axes, boots with crampons, helmet, harness, icescrews etc. Ideal for ice athletes when competing or for winter icefall climbers. Can be carried by hand, or using the shoulder strap, or even as a back pack. Waterproof extremely tough material.

Size: 55cm x 35cm x18cm. 1370g.

Click the image for alternative views. 

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1

Exert extra control over your axe on hard cascade and buttress climbs with the Trigger. It is designed to be fitted so that the forefinger rests on it - this gives a bit more directional control. It can be fitted to many types of axe but has obviously been invented by a mad sadist and requires molegrips (or better still, a vice) and oodles of patience to fit (beware of the device letting the bolt and/or nut fly across the room to some irretreivable corner - and beware stripping the thread!).

It comes in two sizes:
Black (Code 34.74): Fits larger sized black-handled axes (eg the Grivel Wing Series and older Grivel axes). Will also fit the Petzl Quark and about 90% of other axes on the market.
Yellow (Code 34.73): Fits up to 20x30mm tube Yellow-handled axes (eg the Taa-K-oon). 

Quantity:  

Type Black 34.74 Yellow 34.73 Type Stock Black 34.74 4 Yellow 34.73 5+

The Slider is a hand rest that can slide right to the tail end of the shaft when hand support is needed when climbing leashless, and can also slide right to the top end when the ice axe is used for a belay, overcoming a cornice, or to bear weight when in walking mode. The top elastic blocker, which secures the slider to the head of the axe, is included. However it will only fit narrow shafted axes with no rubber grip such as the Airtech Evolution and the Lightwing.

Top tip: The allen key supplied does not give enough leverage to tighten the thing up properly - use an allen screwdriver instead!

Top tip two: Use a vice to clamp the two sides together so that you don't strip the thread oin the bolt. 

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2

Grivel's version of the Petzl/Charlet Griprest. It bolts onto the bottom of a Grivel axe or hammer shaft giving a rest for your hand so that you can go leashless and protecting your fingers from the ice.

Fits just about all Grivel axes and has been adapted to fit many other with a bit of bodging.

NB not designed for clipping into for a sly rest etc!

Top tip: Use a vice to clamp the two sides together so that you don't strip the thread oin the bolt. 

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2

Little black rubber thingy which attaches to the bottom of your shaft and prevents bruised knuckles. Fits most tools.

A customer of ours has fitted these to his Charlet Moser Pulsars with great success.

A bargain! - were £8.99 each!! 

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2

Plastic hook to attach to the bottom of your Viper shaft for greater hand support on steep ice to enable leashless climbing with knuckle protection.

There is a difference between the Fangs made for the original (silver) 2006/7 Viper axes and the new (bronze) 2007/8 ones and the two are not interchangeable.

Price is per single item, not for a pair. 30g 

Quantity:  

Type 2006/7 2007/8 Type Stock 2006/7 3 2007/8 5

The Viper Strike is an upper grip attachment for use when climbing leashless, to enable switching hands and resting more easily.

There is a difference between the Strikes made for the original (silver) 2006/7 Viper axes and the new (bronze) 2007/8 ones and the two are not interchangeable.
 

Quantity:  

Type 2006/7 2007/8 Type Stock 2006/7 3 2007/8 5+

Bolt on extra to convert older style Quarks for leashless climbing, or just to protect your knuckles from the ice. As per the Grivel Horn (above). Price is per single item, not for a pair. 30g

A customer of ours has successfully fitted a pair of these to fit his DMM Flys. He says "With a bit of filing of the plastic, and drilling of the Flys, the Griprests fit like they were made for the job". See Martin Brown's UK Climbing Photo Gallery for a photo of this set up.

NB not designed for clipping into for a sly rest etc! 

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5

Self-adhesive rubber grip tape for customising ice tools (or replacing worn out hand grips). Each roll is 1 metre long by 19mm wide.

NB To apply this tape, wrap it round the shaft of the axe stretching it as you do so - it will grip to itself. It doesn't actually stick in the normal sense of the word. 

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4

Pack of four self-adhesive strips of very rough sandpaper like material (actually very similar skateboard decking) that can be applied to axe shafts to give extra grip. 

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3

Tough webbing axe holster - simple to attach to a harness or rucksack. 

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0

Ingenious rubber thingie for protecting your axe head that stays attached to your axe when not in use so that you don't lose it. 

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1

Black rubber thingy made to protect the point and adze of any mountain axe. 

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5+

Standard size black ice axe ferule protector (the ferule is the spike on the bottom of an ice-axe shaft). Fits most ferules.

16g.
 

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5+

Small black triangular ice axe ferule protector (the ferule is the spike on the bottom of an ice-axe shaft). Fits broad triangular ferules well.

 

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5

Keep those sharp pointy things well protected with this ice tool bag that opens like a suitcase. Store and carry safely a pair of ice axes, boots with crampons, helmet, harness, icescrews etc. Ideal for ice athletes when competing or for winter icefall climbers. Can be carried by hand, or using the shoulder strap, or even as a back pack. Waterproof extremely tough material.

Size: 55cm x 35cm x18cm. 1370g according to Grivel but we reckon 1485g.

Click the image for alternative views. 

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1

A large plastic box with a difference. This one has wheels on one end and an extendable handle on the other making moving it around when it's full of kit a doddle. It also has a handle either end for lifting, four internal hanging loops for racking kit and can be locked with two small padlocks (not supplied).

All in all rather better, sturdier and more secure and useful than you might pick up at B&Q which makes it worth the premium price.

4.3kg, 80litres, 81cm x 42cm x 38cm. 

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1

Black Diamond currently make three different picks (all of which will fit any of their modular axes):

Fusion (405 019): Specialist competion T-rated ice-climbing pick. Fitted as standard to Fusion competition axes.

Titan (405 015): T-rated pick designed for icefall and mixed climbing - this is the replacement for the old Cobra pick, and comes fitted as standard to Rage axes. We recommend this pick if you are looking to replace old BD Alaska Picks (405 000).

Laser (405 017): Pure cascade B-rated pick, designed as a slimmer model of the original Cobra pick. Fitted as standard to Viper axes.

For a note on how to sharpen BD picks click here. 

Quantity:  

Type Fusion Titan Laser Type Stock Fusion 2 Titan 2 Laser 2

A replacement adze for the Viper that will also fit most other BD ice tools. 

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1

A smaller version of the adze that will fit most BD ice tools.

Sorry - not available until Winter 2009/10. 

A replacement hammer for the Viper that will also fit most other BD ice tools. 

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1

A replacement hammer for the Reactor that will also fit most other BD ice tools. 

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1

Designed to replace the hammer for competition climbing. (Obtained to order only). 

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0

Fits Rage, Viper, Fusion etc. Only one bolt and one wrench per set so you need two for one axe. 

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3

Classic (405022) and Tech (405024) picks for the Venom axe and hammer.

We don't generally stock these but they are usually quick to obtain to order. 

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Type Classic Tech Type Stock Classic 1 Tech 1

Enough bolts for one axe.

We don't generally stock these but they are usually quick to obtain to order. 

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0

Stonking great pick for the long discontinued X-tool. You could torque the hind legs off a donkey with this one! 

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0

Spare pick for a DMM Alien. 

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2

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Spare pick for a DMM Predator. 

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0

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Enough bolts (set of 3) to rebolt your beloved Alien or Predator Axe or Hammer. 

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2

Spare pick for a DMM Fly Axe. Two types are available, T is best described as Scottish, B is icefall. In addition each pick comes with either an adze or a hammer head. 

Quantity:  

Type Adze T A0173 Adze B A0173B Hammer T A0174 Hammer B A0174B Type Stock Adze T A0173 2 Adze B A0173B 2 Hammer T A0174 3 Hammer B A0174B 3

Spare pick for a DMM Venom Axe (to order). Only a Scottish Mixed T type is made. 

Quantity:  

Type Adze T C0193 Hammer T C0194 Type Stock Adze T C0193 0 Hammer T C0194 0

Spare pick for a DMM Xeno Axe (to order). Two types are available, T is best described as Scottish, B is icefall. 

Quantity:  

Type Adze T C0183 Adze B C0185 Hammer T C0184 Hammer B C0186 Type Stock Adze T C0183 0 Adze B C0185 0 Hammer T C0184 0 Hammer B C0186 0

Enough bolts (set of 2) to rebolt your Raptor, Fly, Xeno or Venom Axe or Hammer.

NB: There are two types depending on the age of your axe:
Old Type (A1250S) need an Allen Key on both sides.
New Type (A1450S) need an Allen Key on one side and a Spanner on the other. 

Quantity:  

Type New A1450S Old A1250S Type Stock New A1450S 2 Old A1250S 3

Spare pick for a DMM Raptor Axe (to order only).

Two types are available, Alpine (ie a standard curved pick) and Technical (ie a reverse curve pick). 

Quantity:  

Type Alpine + Adze A0160-23 Alpine + Hammer A0160-26 Technical + Adze A0150-01 Technical + Hammer A0150-04 Type Stock Alpine + Adze A0160-23 0 Alpine + Hammer A0160-26 0 Technical + Adze A0150-01 0 Technical + Hammer A0150-04 0

Spare pick for DMM Rebel (or Anarchist) axes. So far only one type is available:
B-Rated (C0224): For icefalls (as supplied with the tool). 

Quantity:  

Type B-Rated C0224 Type Stock B-Rated C0224 2

Spare adze for DMM Rebel. 

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0

Spare hammer head for DMM Rebel. 

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0

Enough nuts and bolts to redo the head of one Rebel (or Anarchist) tool. 

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1

Grivel replacement picks fall into two divisions depending on the type of axe:

Black shafted "Alpine" axes such as the Super-Courmayeur, Rambo, Alpwing and Lightwing:-
Scottish Mixed: (T-rated) Goulottes Pick (34.27)
Icefall Climbing: (B-rated) Evolution Pick (34.23)

Yellow shafted "Technical" axes such as the Machine, Machine Light, Techwing, Topwing, Wing Racing and Taa-K-oon:-
Scottish Mixed: (T-rated) Mixte Pick (34.26)
Icefall Climbing: (B-rated) Cascade (34.28)

Although it is possible to do so, it is not recommended fitting picks designed for black-shafted axes to yellow-shafted axes, and vica versa. 

Quantity:  

Type Goulottes £34.99 Evolution £29.99 Mixte £34.99 Cascade £34.99 Type Stock Goulottes £34.99 2 Evolution £29.99 1 Mixte £34.99 3 Cascade £34.99 4

Grivel replacement pick for the X-Monster. Comes complete with three bolts.

There is a choice of a pick with a "hammer" (the smallest hammer you will ever see!), or an adze. 

Quantity:  

Type Hammer Pick TP900.51 £27.99 Adze Pick TP900.51S £29.99 Type Stock Hammer Pick TP900.51 £27.99 2 Adze Pick TP900.51S £29.99 1

Spare bolt and nut set for Grivel technical axes. Each tool needs a pair. There are two types:

Old Style: axes such as the Super-Courmayeur, Rambo, Machine, and Machine Light (34.07M)

New Style: Wing Series axes such as the Alpwing, Lightwing, Techwing, Topwing, Wing Racing and Taa-K-oon (34.07) - Unfortunately the new style are no longer available. 

Quantity:  

Type Old Style 34.07M Type Stock Old Style 34.07M 1

This is the medium width rather sharp little adze as fitted to the Alp Wing.
 

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0

A wider, more "Scottish" adze.

A bargain - was £20.00!! 

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5+

Spare hammer head as fitted to the Alp Wing and other tools. 

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0

Although HB have sadly gone into liquidation there is still some stock of spares for their axes available. We have bought up the remaining stock - available while they last.

There are three styles of picks.

The Tornado Pick fits all Tornado, Hurricane and Black Lightning Axes. It comes in two types, either of which will fit these axes. T1 was made for the European market and T2 for the American. The latter is very slightly slimmer from top to bottom, but the width of metal is the same. It appears slightly more suited to icefall climbing.

The Maelstrom Pick fits only Maelstrom Axes and the Typhoon Third Tool.

As far as is known, all these picks are T-Rated (ie suitable for mixed climbing).

Sorry - all the Tornado Picks have now gone. 

Quantity:  

Type Maelstrom Pick Type Stock Maelstrom Pick 5+

All these adzes, and the hammer head, will fit any HB technical axe.

Sorry - hammer heads are now all sold. 

Quantity:  

Type Scottish Adze Large Adze Small Adze Type Stock Scottish Adze 3 Large Adze 4 Small Adze 3

All sold out. This section is provided for information only.

Vertige picks are rather confusing as three different versions of this axe exist. They are:

Original - or old style - Vertige (bolts are arranged vertically).

Vertige Alpinist (bolts are arranged horizontally).

Vertige Extreme 700) (bolts are arranged vertically).

The chart shows the types of picks available:

Original (old) Vertige: MT46 Alpine, MT47 Drooped, MT47C Icefall.

Vertige Alpinist: MT46A Alpine, MT45A Drooped.

Vertige Extreme 700: MT47 Drooped, MT47C Icefall.

NB MT46, MT46A and MT 47C are sold out and as Mountain Technology as a firm got taken over by another firm that has now ceased trading it seems unlikely that these picks will ever be made again. The same is true for bolts, hammer heads, adzes etc.

All sold out. This section is provided for information only. 

Replacement picks for Petzl-Charlet (Charlet-Moser) ice axes are either 'T' or 'B' Rated. The former are heavier duty and are designed for Scottish winter and alpine mixed climbing, whilst the latter have finer blades and are more suitable for cascade icefall climbing. For UK use we would recommend the use of T rated picks as B picks may not be strong enough for mixed climbing.

The photo shows the picks available:

PCU93000 Aztar, T, Quattro Pick: Replacement buttress/Scottish pick for the Aztar. 'T' Rated.

PCU92000 Aztar, B, Blueice Pick: Replacement icefall pick for the Aztar. 'B' Rated. To Order.

PC68357 Axar Pulsar Quasar, T, 4x4 Pick: Substantial Scottish type pick for Axar, Pulsar & Quasar. 'T' Rated.

PCU90000 Axar Pulsar Quasar, B, Cascade Upgrade Pick: Icefall pick for Pulsar, Axar and Quasar. 'B' Rated. To Order.

PCU91000 Quark, B, Quad Pick: Replacement buttress/Scottish pick for the Quark. 'T' Rated.

PC6837 Quark, T, Cascade Pick: Replacement icefall pick for the Quark. 'B' Rated. To Order.

U21100 Nomic Cascade: Replacement icefall pick for the Nomic. 'B' Rated.

U21000 Nomic Astro: Replacement mixed pick for the Nomic. Also 'B' Rated, though thicker (and presumably a bit stronger). 

Quantity:  

Pick_Type Quatro PCU93000 £39.99 Blueice PCU92000 £37.50 4 x 4 PC68357 £19.99 Upgrade PCU90000 £35.99 Quad PCU91000 £39.99 Cascade 68367 £36.99 Nomic Cascade U21100 £36.99 Nomic Astro (Mixed) U21000 £39.99 Pick_Type Stock Quatro PCU93000 £39.99 2 Blueice PCU92000 £37.50 2 4 x 4 PC68357 £19.99 2 Upgrade PCU90000 £35.99 4 Quad PCU91000 £39.99 2 Cascade 68367 £36.99 0 Nomic Cascade U21100 £36.99 0 Nomic Astro (Mixed) U21000 £39.99 1

Replacement adze for the Petzl Quark. 

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0

Replacement hammer head for the Petzl Quark. 

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1

Beef up just about any tool with this 47g head weight 

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2

Set of Bolts for Quasar, Pulsar, Axar or Aztar. Enough for one axe. 

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1

Set of 3 Bolts for Quark and Quark Ergo. Enough for one axe.

Unfortunately replacement bolts for Aztars are not available on their own as yet, but one is included with each spare Aztar pick - see above. 

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5

Along with the Mountain Technology Vertige, the Simond Piranha was the axe of choice for British winter climbers ca 1990.

Spare B rated banana pick for your Piranha axe or hammer.

Currently not available in the UK - we are trying to obtain some but in the meantime we cannot take orders for them. 

New set of bolts for your Piranha - Locktite?! Enough bolts to re-do one axe. 

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3