We all know that ice axe or ice tools are the most important part of ice climbing gear. To know what are important for ice climbing gear, check this article! We have seen people getting confused between the ice axes and ice tools so today in this article we are going to tell you about ice axe and ice tools.
But, is there a difference between an ice axe and an ice tool? Yes there is, Ice axes are multi-purpose tools that can be used for hiking, ascending and descending routes that are snowy or icy. This tool is primarily used for balancing and helping to prevent accidents. Typically, an ice tool is a multi-purpose ice axe used for vertical ice climbing. In comparison with an ice axe, ice tools tend to be shorter and more curved.
You may not be able to use an ice axe as well as an ice tool interchangeably depending on the terrain and the route you will encounter on your climb.
Ice Axe and Ice Tool Comparison
Before we start check out this video:
Anatomy
Below we highlight some differences between an ice axe and ice tool:
| Ice Axe | Ice Tool |
| Head The shorter part of the ice axe. The pick and adze make up this set. Usually made of steel. There may be some holes in the center for leashes and carabiners. The handle can be used as a walking stick when the ice axe is used as a walking stick. | Head Ice tool’s short section. An adze and a pick are included. Ice axes have a much more curved head. Usually made of steel. There may be some holes in the center for leashes and carabiners. The ice tool is not used as a walking stick. |
| Pick The sharp, toothed end of the head. It is used to cut into the ice and to serve as an anchor point. | Pick The sharp, toothed end of the head. As compared to an ice axe, the pick generally has a smaller angle to the shaft. – This is used in vertical climbing as an anchor point as well as for cutting into the ice. |
| Adze An end of the head that is flat and wider. Used for chopping steps out of ice and snow. It may also take the form of a hammer. | Adze An end of the head that is flat and wider. It is used to chop grips into ice and snow when the pick side cannot be used. You can also use a hammer in substitute of this. |
| Leash A short strap that is looped around the wrist of the ice axe when in use. | Leash While using an ice tool, a short strap should be looped around your wrist. The tool can be leashless. |
| Leash stop On the shaft, a stopper prevents the leash from sliding off. Usually made of rubber. | Leash stop A stopper in the shaft prevents the leash from sliding off. Usually made of rubber. |
| Shaft Ice axes are longer because of their longer length. It ranges from 21 to 30 inches (55 to 75 centimeters). Usually straight, but can be wider from front to back than from side to side to allow for easier gripping. They’re typically made of wood, metals, or composite materials. Metal shafts might have rubber grips. | Shaft This is why ice tool has a longer length. It measures between 17 and 21 inches (45 and 55 centimeters). A curved handle is easier to hold and swing during vertical ice climbing. In vertical ice climbing, curved shafts are used. They’re typically made of wood, metals, or composite materials. Metal shafts might have rubber grips. |
| Spike A sharp point is located at the end of the shaft. This is used as a walking stick when an ice axe is used as a walking stick. Usually made of steel. | Spike It is actually an end of the shaft with a sharp point. This is sometimes used to cut through ice or snow. Usually made of steel. |
The Uses And Functions
Described below is a comparison between the usage of an ice axe and that of an ice tool:
| Ice Axe | Ice Tool |
| Used for: Climbing on routes that have ice or snow on them. Climbing on terrain with a lesser degree of slope. | Used for: Climbing vertically on ice, such as frozen waterfalls and ice walls. |
| Functions: When climbing steep routes, it is used for gripping rock edges and ledges as well as walking as a stick. Steps can be cut into the ice with this tool Can serve as an anchor point for belaying. Used for self-arrest (stopping a slide or a fall). | Functions: An anchor used to climb vertically. Not intended for self-arrest. |
| Quantity: Climbers typically use one ice axe at a time. | Quantity: Normally, climbers carry two ice tools at the same time. |
An Ice Axe Known By Other Terms
Ice axe and ice tools may be used interchangeably by some people.
A traveling axe, walking axe, or mountaineering axe is also called an ice axe, which makes it easier to distinguish between the two.
Sub-categories Of Ice Axe And Ice Tool
There are also further many more sub-categories of ice axes and ice tools.
CEN (European Committee for Standardization) Certification
Ice tools and ice axes are divided into two categories by a European certification organization: Basic (B) and Technical (T).
Ice axes can be rated B or T. Ice tools are always rated T.
Typically, if an ice axe is CEN-B rated it is:
- It’s lighter
- A less durable product
- It is less expensive
- Technical climbing is not recommended
When an ice axe or ice tool has a CEN-T rating, it means:
- Weighs more
- Enhanced durability
- It’s more expensive
- Suitable for use in technical climbing
There is a wide variation in ratings even among picks and shafts for ice tools. A CEN-T shaft can have a CEN-B choice.
The CEN-B rating usually indicates the following:
- Slimmer
- Flexible
- Hard ice can be penetrated more easily
CEN-T ratings typically mean:
- Stronger
- Firmer
- Suitable for mixed climbing (ice and rocks)
- A tougher and more capable individual
Features
A further division of ice tools can be made into three subcategories:
Traditional ice tools
- These ice tools are equipped with specialized leashes that allow climbers to apply grips to their tools by resting their wrists on the leashes instead of gripping them with their hands.
- There is one disadvantage; when in resting position, ice tools can become stuck and difficult to manipulate. As a result, some competitions call for leashless tools in place of leash-free ice tools.
An ice tool that is leashless
- With ice tools without leashes, climbers have greater maneuverability and are able to use the tools more efficiently.
- Climbers will not get tangled in their leashes.
- The disadvantage is risk of dropping ice tools during the climb is high. Instead of a fixed cord, a flexible cord is used to attach the tools.
Modified traditional tools
- Finger rests are designed on the ice tools.
- It can be leash-free or with a leash.
When not in use, how to secure an ice axe or ice tool
Ice axes and ice tools are normally attached to backpacks with straps. If you secure your ice axe or tool in your backpack, it should be at the bottom.
The steps to securing an ice axe or ice tools are as follows:
- Slide the shaft all the way through the bottom strap or loop with the spike facing down.
- Twist the ice axe or tool 180 degrees when the head is resting on the strap. Ensure that the spike is up top and your head is at the bottom of your backpack.
- Use the strap or loop at the top of your backpack to secure the shaft.
- Ensure your backpack is shaken hard before moving around so your ice axe does not fall out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is an ice axe used for?
The purpose of an ice axe is to provide a secure base when you are walking or to make it easier to plunge into the snow for belaying or rescue. Whenever you need the use of an ice axe, make sure it’s out of your backpack and at the ready before you encounter challenging conditions.
How to use an ice tool?
If you want to know how to use an ice tool, then this video is totally made for you.
Do you need an ice axe for winter hiking?
When hiking or climbing in the winter, an ice axe is an essential safety tool. Providing you receive proper instruction, learning the basics is easy and serves as a foundation for all subsequent winter hiking and mountaineering.
How to use an ice axe?
To know how to use an ice axe, check out this video!
How to use an ice tool?
If you want to know how to use an ice tool, then this video is totally made for you.
