What length should ice axe be?
What length should ice axe be?
45-50cm
Typically, 45-50cm in length is ideal. Making sure you buy an axe that is the appropriate length for your height and your needs. It is almost always better to go shorter, as there are very few disadvantages, but several advantages of a short axe.
How do I know what size walking axe to buy?
Walking axes A shorter shaft makes this easier, so a compromise has to be made. Depending on their height, most people opt for a walking axe 55-65cm in length. The ideal pick shape is gently curved for a smooth self arrest. Make sure that the axe fits comfortably in the hand when held with the pick facing backwards.
How do you size a hybrid ice axe?
Generally, hybrid axes are sized between 50-59cm, with a preference toward being too short rather than too long. When getting into very steep or vertical terrain, the route may require the use of two axes – generally one hybrid axe, and one ice tool; or potentially two ice tools for truly vertical terrain and beyond.
How do I choose an ice tool?
How to Choose an Ice Axe
- Classic length (sized from the base of the thumb to the ankle)
- Straight aluminum shaft; or a curved shaft if routes involve lots of steep terrain.
- Comfortable grip is a plus.
- Steel head with a classic-curve pick.
Do you need an ice axe on the PCT?
Ice axes are another optional piece of gear when thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, though again, if you’re leaving early in the season (or just want peace of mind) then they’re very nice to have.
What is an ice axe called?
Adze — the flat, wide end of the head used for chopping steps in hard snow and ice.
What is a hybrid ice axe?
Hybrid/Alpine Ice Axes As the name implies, hybrid axes split the difference between their mountaineering and ice counterparts. They feature a slightly bent shaft for clearing ice bulges on steeper terrain and a more aggressive pick for ascending steeper sections of ice.
How do you carry an ice axe?
Hold the axe so the pick is pointed forward just above the shoulder of your uphill hand. The shaft is diagonal across your body with your hand holding the bottom of the shaft near your hip. Drive the pick of the axe into the snow and pull up on the shaft (keep it out of the snow).
Do you lose weight on the PCT?
In reading other people’s blogs, we decided that one of the big dangers of hiking the PCT is weight loss. We saw the before and after pictures of hikers at the beginning and end of the trail and, wow, what a difference! Losing thirty or more pounds is not unusual.
How much money do you need to hike the Pacific Crest Trail?
$4,000 to $6,000 per person
The average cost of a PCT thru-hike, including gear, food/resupply, and other end-to-end trail expenses, is $4,000 to $6,000 per person for an average thru-hike. That said, it’s not uncommon to hear stories of some people spending close to $10,000.
What is ice axe type1?
There are two classifications of ice axe, Basic (B/Type 1) and Technical (T/Type 2). Basic ice axes are designed for use in snow conditions for general mountaineering, and are adequate for basic support and self-arrest.
Can you get an ice axe shorter than 60cm?
Going shorter (by up to 10cm) is OK if you anticipate a lot of travel on steep terrain, or your route will require minimal ice axe use. Avoid getting an ice axe shorter than 60cm, though, because its spike will be dangerously close to your vital organs during a self-arrest.
What is an ice axe pick used for?
Pick: This is the pointed end on the head of the ice axe. It’s used for hooking and swinging into snow or ice, the key maneuver for a self-arrest. Most picks have a classic curve. (Reverse-curve picks are found in ice-climbing axes because they are angled better for ice-wall penetration.)
How are ice axes measured?
Owing to their European heritage, ice axes are measured in centimeters. Each size reflects the distance from the tip of the axe to the top of the head. Typically axes are available in size increments of 5cm from 50cm to 75cm. The correct length is based on your size and your type of activity.
What are the features of a classic Pick Axe?
Features include: Classic length; or up to 10cm shorter if axe use is minimal Straight shaft; or curved shaft if axe will often be gripped mid-shaft and used like a claw Steel head with a classic-curve pick