Ice picks and ice axes

In snow and ice, a pickle or ice ax is an indispensable item. Pickels provide extra support while walking and ice climbing and can serve as a brake if you unexpectedly fall. With a pickel, the head is quite flat so that you can use it as support when walking in the snow ('walking stick function'). With an ice ax the head is a lot more angular and extreme ice axes often lack a hoe or hammer.

You choose the right pickel based on three things: your height, weight and the activity you want to perform. Do you want to go mountain hiking or waterfall climbing? This is important information when making your choice.
The CE mark can help you make the right choice. If the pick is provided with the CE code 1, this means that it is a traditional mountaineering axe. With the CE code 2, the ax is strong enough for technical climbing. These ice axes are generally heavier and more expensive.

What does a pickel & ice ax consist of?

• Head: The head consists of the thorn, the hoe and in many cases a carabiner eye. The head is usually made of a steel alloy. With tools specifically for steep ice walls and mixed rock and ice climbing, the hoe is of little use, so it can be replaced by a hammer. An ice ax with hammer is often a bit lighter.
• Thorn: This is the sharp part of the pickle/ice axe, ideal for hooking and use in snow or ice. It is also the part that is used for self-rescue. With a thorn it is important to look at the curvature and point.
• The curvature is the angle of the thorn relative to the stem. An angle of 65º to 70º is typical for picks, while an angle of 55º to 60º is common for technical ice axes and other tools.
• The tip of the thorn can be curved or straight. For ice axes for which loose mandrels are available, this clearly shows what the mandrel type is. 
• Hoe: The wide shovel-like hoe is mainly used to cut out steps or seats in snow or ice. The hoe provides good grip during self-belay (with the hoe pointed forward). This provides a sturdy anchor and easier access to various belay techniques.
• Carabiner eye: This hole in the head of a pickle/ice ax is used for attaching a wrist strap and sometimes a carabiner.
• Steel: Made of aluminum, carbon fiber or steel. Choosing between different materials is always a trade-off between weight and strength. Heavier stems are generally stronger, although lightweight materials such as carbon fiber are also very strong (although they are a lot more expensive).
  • Pickels have straight stems and are better suited for self-belaying or for use as an anchor. Tools with a straight handle are therefore suitable for traditional mountaineering.
  • Ice axes have curved handles and are better suited for use on ice. Curved tools are therefore suitable for technical mountaineering and ice climbing.
  • Some handles are partially or completely covered with a rubber layer for extra grip. In addition, sports tape can be used to create extra grip or you can wear gloves with rubber palms for extra friction.
• Point: The metal end of the pickle/ice ax is the sharp point that pierces snow and ice. The point is mainly used to maintain balance while walking on snow and ice, you essentially use the pickle as a walking stick. Many pickles for steep ice walls and mixed climbing have had their points permanently removed. 
  There are protectors to protect the sharp point of the pickle
• A wrist strap ensures that tools cannot simply fall. Shorter wrist straps make it easier to regain control of the tool during a fall. Choose a short strap if you go ice climbing. A long wrist strap is often as long as the pickle/ice ax itself.

Selection aid
The table below can be used as a guideline for choosing the correct length.
Your height (cm) Pickle/ice ax length (cm)
       <170                                  50-60
     172-180                             60-70
       >180                                   60-75