This model replaces the Alpamayo as Black Diamond's mountaineering axe and has a slightly curved, narrow rectangular adze. While the adze did not chop snow as quickly as larger adzes, the benefit of this design was clear: It could be used pick-style for climbing soft snow, and it chopped ice more efficiently than a wider adze.

The adze's sharp corners were a minor discomfort to palms and fingers while being carried. The aluminum shaft has a baked-on powder-coat paint that withstood repeated crampon whacking and still slid easily into the snow for belays, anchors, and probing.

Weight (70 cm): 1 pound, 10 ounces
Price: $80
UIAA rating: B
Pro: A top performer that self-arrests and climbs well.
Con: Heavier than competitors and an uncomfortable adze design.
Self-arrest: 3.5
Steep snow climbing: 4
Durability: 4
(Rating scale, 1  5: 1 = poor, 3 = average, 5 = excellent)
Comparative Ratings Chart

For more information: Black Diamond, (801) 278-5533.