The Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe is made with a stainless steel head and aluminium shaft making for a super lightweight axe. You almost forget you have the axe attached to your backpack as it weighs less than 1 pound.
Raven Pro Ice Axe Weight
The Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe weighs 13 oz. With the benefit of the aluminium shaft, it cuts down on the weight without sacrificing the strength of the axe. Compared to other axes the weight is night and day.
I kept having to look back to make sure the axe was attached. The only downside while riding is the axe is very sharp, so while attached to your backcountry pack make sure you have a sleeve over the axe blade or you can shred your backpack. While riding with the axe in hand, it felt very comfortable similar to that of a ski pole.
Stainless Steel Head
The Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe was able to hold me securely on the slope (145 lbs) when glissading the Ice Axe was wide enough to slow me down when needed, a good sign of an Ice Axe!!! Solid craftsmanship, Stainless-steel head and spike/aluminium shaft are whats found on the Black Diamond Raven Axe.
The thing looks very slick, it’s sure to turn a few heads. Black Diamond made this axe, lightweight and compact. Perfect for a day trip into the backcountry.
Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Super lightweight stainless steel head
- Aluminium shaft reduces weight significantly
- Comfortable to hold, similar to a ski pole
Cons:
- Axe is very sharp, risk of shredding backpack
- Weight could be slightly heavier for some
Overall Impression
If you’re going to trust your life, your ski partner’s life, and anyone else around you while climbing mountains on this planet you should really look into being safe and check out Black Diamond’s full line of gear. The Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe ($109.95) has found a new home in my backcountry pack and I don’t leave home without it…
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