The concept of this axe is most attractive for mixed hiking and light mountaineering. The length can be extended for use as a walking staff; and it can be made compact enough for a useful self-arrest tool. Unfortunately, the clutch mechanism that should hold the axe at a set length is unreliable. Mine failed in its first outing. And as we all know, a tool that you cannot count on is worse than no tool at all.

This is a great general mountaineering axe for steep ice and glacier type of travel. I have used it for bracing on Mount Jackon with 70+ mph winds and it worked great. I really like the telescoping aspect of the axe cause it adds great support while ascending. I recommend this Ice Axe for general mountaineering!!

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