Ice Axe?

[Zenolith]

A sad blunder has left me without my beloved 65cm Charlet Moser. I must shell out for a new one and I wonder what other folks have. I want an ultralight axe since I usually carry a BD hammer on steep alpine routes. My choices seem to be between Grivel's Air Tech Racing (15 oz) and the Cassin Ghost (9 oz!). Both are rated at 270kn and the Ghost says it is approved for use as a buried anchor, but the Grivel has a steel head. Hmmm...

[dan_e]

I've been using the Air Tech Racing axe for a couple of seasons. It's not the lightest, but it's damn light. I would go with the Grivel since it has a steel head and can be used to climb ice, it also has more of an aggressive pick than most. Grivel does make a lighter one with an alloy head as well. I am sure either one can be used as an anchor.

[Jman]

Much will depend on what type of conditions you intend/could encounter. An aluminum head sucks for late season ice but is just fine for med-hard snow conditions. Personally, I own a steel head axe and I also bought the Cassin Ghost. How many trips have you been on when you weren't sure whether or not you need an axe and hence left it behind for the sake of weight and then wished you had it? Or took your full-on 75cm steel-headed "battle" axe as simply an ornament to your pack? Do you carry a snow picket in addtion to your axe? For only 9 oz, I think the Ghost offers a great compromise/solution (MSR's 24" Coyote is 13 oz and Charlet Moser's aluminum picket is 8 oz). Use a "real" axe for conditions that merit it (assuming you buy one) and carry the Ghost as a "picket" - if you don't intend on using the axe as a picket. When you're not sure if you'll need one, take just the Ghost for security with minimal weight.

This is only if you can afford the price tag, though. I think the Grivel Air Tech Racing is a LOT of money ($118) for only a couple ounces lighter than most others. Also, if I'm gonna have a steel head, I'd rather have a steel spike too. (think: Grivel Eagle at $80) And then add the Ghost for another $80. Now you'll be prepared for all situations!

just my $.02 (for free, even!)