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Ice climbing tools
Ice climbing tools can be used in all types of mountaineering. In general, the phrase ‘ice climbing tool’ refers to an ice axe. It can be used to perform a variety of tasks off the ice, similar to those on the ice. The biggest problem with using ice an ice axe while hiking or rock climbing is that the pick, adze and spike will become dull more quickly.
Although ice climbing tools may be used in other types of mountaineering, they do include attributes which make them particularly fit for ice climbing. The shaft of an ice climbing tool should be bent to protect the hands from getting banged up on the ice. A bent shaft will also allow a climber to hook the tool over ice bulges on waterfall routes. Climbing tools with a straight shaft are not as easy to place effectively on steep ice, but may be used as anchors when plunged into snow.
Other types of ice climbing tools include crampons, carabiners and quickdraws. These, however, should be considered more under the umbrella of ice climbing gear. Other items in this category are ropes, harnesses, belay devices and helmets. For the purposes of this description, ‘ice climbing tool’ will refer specifically to an ice climbing axe.
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