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Topic Date User

Snow/Ice Tools 1-Sep-2004 At 7:34:39 PM JBM

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My mate climbed with them in Peru and bent the tang on the first climb stamping in a picket. Also, the plastic bit on the binding and anti balling plated (built in) have had their issues (cracking). Keep in mind this is the first generation of the product - best to wait til next season and pick up the next batch once they have worked out some of the production kinks.

Re: Ice tools (original thread)

I have a both a pair of the BD Cobras and the Petzl Aztars. Both very good for their purpose. No tools swings like a pair of cobras on the steep vertical (re: WI4+). Zero vibration and perfect weighting. They work in an alpine environment as well - plunge easily but are a bit heavy for anything at altitude. I recently got a pair of the Aztars for long snow/alpine face routes. They climb extremely well (even on the vertical) and are super light. They plunge a bit better than the cobras since the grip is not as wide, and the insulation on the grip is a nice bonus. However, the pick attachment is a bit shite. you need tools to replace the picks whereas on the BD tools you can use the other tool to remove the picks. My guess is they did this to save weight. Additionally, ditch the Freelock leashes, they are crap. Get a pair of BD lock downs or androids depending on your climbing style.

Verdict: Value for money, the Aztars are good quality and nice all around work horses. I got mine from Rock Hardware for $250each. One other option might be the BD Shrikes or Rages if you are looking for a better pick attachment system.

But at the end of the day, if your game is steep frozen stuff as opposed to alpine snow/ice - nothing beats the Cobras (Can I get a Halleleuja from the Choir?!?)

Also, spend the money on a pair of ice tools and an ice axe. Don't try and climb the vertical stuff with your axe either - most of the picks on them are shite for that purpose.