Like the Kong Raid, the Fennec has a smooth rubber handle on the shaft. This particular rubber withstood the punishment of clearing snow from crampons much better than that on both the Kong and the Camp axes, but still created a bit of excess friction when probing or belaying in dense snow.

For self-arrest the Fennec's pick performed as well as most. The head was very comfortable to hold, and the adze cut steps and bollards with ease. Darin didn't like the design of the pencil-like spike on this model because he prefers a larger triangular spike, but this didn't bother Chris or me. Price alone shouldn't drive your decision, but dollar for dollar there are better axes.

Weight (68 cm): 1 pound, 8 ounces
UIAA rating: No rating
Price: $93
Pro: Good overall performer and comfortable to hold.
Con: Costly and rubber-shafted although better than comparable axes.
Self-arrest: 3.5
Steep snow climbing: 2
Durability: 3.5
(Rating scale, 1  5: 1 = poor, 3 = average, 5 = excellent)
Comparative Ratings Chart

For more information: Simond at www.simond.com