Black diamond raven ice axe review. Sitting in Black Diamond's line-up between the mountaineering-oriented Swift and the more sedate Raven, the Raven Pro is well suited to snowy Jun 15, 2023 · The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a true legend in the world of ice climbing and mountaineering. The pick is Shop Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe | 4. Jul 15, 2025 · The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe features a durable, trapezoidal cross-section, aircraft-grade aluminum shaft, providing a comfortable and secure grip. Modern updates include a lighter feel, redesigned geometry, and a better handle whether you're ascending steep, icy couloirs or traversing glaciars. The comfortable dual-density grip increases holding Shop a wide selection of Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe at DICK’S Sporting Goods and order online for the finest quality products from the top brands you trust. com : Black Diamond BD41016975 Raven Ice Axe with Grip 75 cm : Sports & OutdoorsCurrently unavailable. Both are still hill walking axes rather than “proper” mountaineering axes, but in terms of overall capability they’re right at the upper end of that Feb 9, 2025 · Black Diamond's Raven is a classic ice ace based off Chouinard's original pick. The Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe is an ultralight, complete feature ice axe that weighs a mere 362 grams. Aaron’s favorite glacier ice axe is the Black Diamond Raven Pro. Jan 17, 2024 · If you want a classic mountaineering axe, look no further than the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe. Feb 14, 2015 · Read our review of the Black Diamond Raven Pro, a very lightweight ice axe with a sleek design that's good for hillwalking. If you’re looking for an ultra light ice axe it’s hard to go past it. The original Black Diamond Raven Pro, with a straight shaft and classically curved stainless steel head, has been my personal ice axe of choice for the last nine years. The pick is Black Diamond built the Raven Ultra Ice Axe for fast-and-light alpine routes and technical ski mountaineering. Features: The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a traditional mountaineering piolet. Aaron’s favorite hybrid ice axe is the Black Diamond Venom. The Raven Pro Ice Axe is Black Diamond's lightest fully featured mountaineering axe. It’s incredibly light and versatile. Feb 17, 2025 · Now with a subtle bend in the shaft, the Black Diamond Raven Pro receives some welcome updates. It's a solid, comfortable general mountaineering axe, as long as the terrain isn't too technical. It is redesigned to be lighter and features an ergonomically improved stainless steel head for added comfort. The investment-cast, one-piece stainless-steel head includes a large hole for carabiner attachment. The Black Diamond Raven Ultra Ice Axe is an easy-to-carry, relatively strong, and lightweight option for those who want to save weight on extended trips, and want a convenient axe to carry efficiently. com/The Raven is a bombproof but lightweight axe designed for alpine climbs where two technical ice axes aren’t required. The shaft is built from lightweight yet strong and durable aircraft grade aluminum alloy. https://shop. epictv. The Raven Pro, along with the rest of the Raven family, are among the most comfortable ice axes to carry. The raven's durable aircraft aluminum shaft and investment-cast stainless steel pick are engineered for secure self-arresting. The investment-cast, curved, stainless steel head's shape improves handling for traverses, and it has a large hole for carabiners of any size. Jul 19, 2025 · Black Diamond's Raven Pro is a technical mountaineering axe redesigned with a slight curve for a greater performance whether you're kicking steps up the steeps or traversing icy crevasses. The tip is shaped by forging in such a way that all the edges of the head are rounded. The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe with Grip is a functional, versatile, and easy-to-use ice axe that has proven to be a good all-around option on the mountain. It works well for moderate snow climbs, early-season backpacking, and basic glacier routes but is a cut below the Nov 10, 2021 · The Black Diamond Raven with Grip is a handsome-looking ice axe with a straight shaft and elegantly shaped and comfortable head, thanks to the cutaway sections for the fingers and thumb. This is a reliable and durable axe that has been made with an aircraft-grade aluminum shaft and a one-piece stainless steel head. Gear Review Black Diamond Raven Ultra steel pick and spike general mountaineering 50, 55, 60cm sizes 12. Redesigned and lighter, the Raven with Grip features a high-precision cast stainless steel striking head offering better ergonomics and increased comfort while walking. The Raven Pro has all the same features but is two ounces lighter and a bit more expensive. com : Black Diamond BD41016860 Raven Ice Axe 60 cm : Sports & OutdoorsHelp others learn more about this product by uploading a video! Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe available at Ultralight Outdoor Gear with FREE UK+EU Delivery, in-depth reviews, tech specs & helpful advice. The updated pick and adze geometry Feb 9, 2008 · Amazon. Oct 21, 2024 · The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is great for moderate snow climbs and basic glacier routes. 5 21 ratings | Search this page Price: $129. com : Black Diamond BD41016965 Raven Ice Axe with Grip 65 cm : Sports & OutdoorsAbout this item Excellent protection without hindering activity Purpose designed and built Cutting-edge climbing equipment is designed and built for the send across the full spectrum of climbing pursuits Jan 21, 2025 · The Black Diamond Raven With Grip axe and Serac crampons offer a solid, reliable setup for winter hillwalking and low-grade mountaineering. Mar 22, 2019 · Our Verdict The Black Diamond Raven Pro is the lighter cousin of the mega-popular Raven. The new Raven Ice Axe is lighter than previous models and boasts an updated investment-cast stainless steel head ergononomically improved for increased comfort while walking, an updated pick and adze geometry for more secure placements and efficient chopping, a revamped spike for better bite and improved plunge-ability plus an improved shaft with a tapezoidal cross-section for a more About this item Product details Our modern take on Chouinard's original curved-pick mountain axe, the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on classic climbs the world over for decades. Helens, and I just returned from using my Raven on my second summit of Mt Rainier. The updated pick and adze Amazon. This pairing strikes a great balance of performance, Jun 19, 2020 · Amazon. Updated blade and Jan 22, 2025 · We’ve included a Black Diamond Raven in almost every round-up of ice axes and make no apology for doing the same now. The new Raven Ice Axe is lighter than previous models and boasts an updated investment-cast stainless steel head ergononomically improved for increased comfort while walking, an updated pick and adze geometry for more secure placements and efficient chopping, a revamped spike for better bite and improved plunge-ability plus an improved shaft with a tapezoidal cross-section for a more Harking back to Yvon Chouinard’s original curved-pick mountain axe, Black Diamond’s Raven ice axe is a classic piolet for traditional winter walks and alpine climbs. 32K subscribers Subscribed Jun 19, 2020 · Amazon. Now redesigned, the Raven is lighter, and sports an updated investment-cast, stainless steel head ergonomically improved for increased comfort while walking. The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe with Grip takes our classic mountaineer’s piolet and adds a lower grip and a Slider Leash for increased security and versatility. Keep away from children. Not the type for alpine ice or mixed routes that require a much sturdier tool. Jun 19, 2020 · Amazon. The ergonomic, stainless steel head has a flat top and hourglass shape at its connection to the shaft. com : Black Diamond BD41017150 Raven Pro Ice Axe 50 cm : Sports & OutdoorsSafety Information WARNING: Handle with care. Jan 12, 2023 · The Black Diamond Raven Pro ice axe is one of my favorites just because of how sleek the design is. The shaft now has a grooved grip for greater control during self-arrests. In this regard, it competes squarely with the DMM Spire Tech. Feb 23, 2021 · Black Diamond's revised Raven Pro features a number of updates over the previous version. If you are in the market for some technical tools, this is the review for you. The type of axe that you want for ski mountaineering, approaching alpine rock routes, etc. Not sure if the weight difference between the PRO version and the regular Raven is that significant. The UKC team looks at high performing ice axes from top brands such as Petzl, DMM, Black Diamond, Grivel and Edelrid. Product features Stainless steel pick for better anchoring The Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe is a mountaineering tool for technical climbing. Thanks to the head and tip of the ice ax made of high-quality stainless steel, it offers high-quality anchorage in hard snow and ice. Jan 29, 2024 · We’ll compare the Petzl Glacier Ice Axe, the Camp X-Light Ice Axe, and the Black Diamond Equipment Raven Ice Axe, discussing their features, benefits, and why owning one of these tools is essential for your safety and performance in the mountains. Jul 25, 2025 · Compared to my previous ice axe, a vintage Chouinard, the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe With Grip offers a significant improvement in terms of weight, grip comfort, and overall performance. Black Diamond Raven Suitable for: Hiking Trekking Mountaineering Glacier travelling The Black Diamond Raven is one of the most popular ice axes among hikers and mountaineers as it provides superb performance for a low price. Black Diamond also updated the pic, adze, and spike geometry for greater security in shallow placements. The Raven is my fourth ice axe. Jul 8, 2015 · The Raven is not your next ice climbing axe, but works well for glacier travel and moderate angle snow climbs where self arrest is a possibility. May 1, 2014 · Most ergonomic ice axe I could find. The Raven Ultra is a B-rated axe with an Jan 21, 2025 · The Black Diamond Raven With Grip axe and Serac crampons offer a solid, reliable setup for winter hillwalking and low-grade mountaineering. Compared to other axes the weight is night and day. The holes in the middle of the head and adze give lots of options for creating snow belays too. The Black Diamond Raven Ice Ax is a modern take on the iconic mountaineering tool trusted for decades. The Raven is a classic straight shafted walking axe, while this Pro version has a slightly curved shaft for use on more technical ground. The Glacier remained a standout choice for most general mountaineering applications and was one of the higher Mar 21, 2019 · The Black Diamond Venom is a modular ice axe that is geared towards steep snow climbs, moderate water ice, and complex glacier routes. Our technical mountaineering axethe Raven Pro is lightweight and features a slightly angled and ergonomic trapezoidal shaft for better grip on more aggressive climbing. The Black Diamond Raven ice axe with Grip is an update on Black Diamond’s classic single axe for mountaineering. Not only does the rubber provide better grip when you're swinging the Raven on 60-degree neve, it also insulates your hands from the metal shaft to eliminate chilled fingers. 7 / 10. 9 Star Rating on 10 Reviews for Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe Free 2 Day Shipping + Free Shipping over $49. Do not dispose of in regular trash. Even though it weighs only 12oz in a 50cm length, the Raven Ultra is still completely functional and easily stands up to the abuse alpine tools take on a regular basis. 9 ounces ‘Know Thyself’ is a great motto when it comes to choosing between aluminum and steel ice axes. Jan 28, 2022 · With products in our fleet ranging in price, there's a significant difference between the products we tested. A more technical take on our traditional mountaineering piolet, the Raven Pro is now lighter with a slightly angled and ergonomically shaped trapezoidal shaft, tuned pick and adze geometry for improved ice performance, a grooved grip for more secure grip and a redesigned spike for better bite and plunge-ability. Sep 20, 2014 · As with many products designed by Black Diamond, the Raven Pro is a fine example of functional and appealing design. In its lightest configuration, it is close to the lightest options available at 220g. Available in seven shaft lengths, the Raven can accommodate shorter folks and kids to those who are Jan 17, 2024 · If you want a classic mountaineering axe, look no further than the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe. Agree with all the recommendations about browsing resale or at least shopping a sale, an ice axe is an ice axe but the BD Raven Pro or Petzl Summit are the go-to's for me. Il est utilisé partout dans le monde pour des courses classiques depuis des décennies. The head is made out of stainless so it never rusts and Find 100's of Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe With Grip reviews by customers from Cotswold Outdoor. Our modern take on Chouinard’s original curved-pick mountain axe, the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a classic mountaineer’s piolet that has been used on classic climbs the world over for decades. A review of the Black Diamond Ice Axe, a classic mountaineering tool, that I have enjoyed using. Always use with proper grip and technique to avoid injury. Mar 21, 2019 · The Petzl Glacier is a fantastic ice axe for an excellent price and was nearly the winner of our OutdoorGearLab Best Buy award. I have climbed Mt. This pairing strikes a great balance of performance, A modern take on Yvon Chouinard's original curved-pick mountain axe, the Black Diamond Raven ice axe is a classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on classic climbs the world over for decades. For those who want to occasionally climb steeper routes, pairing their axe with a second ice tool is possible, but we would recommend a different method. Available in seven shaft lengths, the Raven can accommodate shorter folks and kids to those who are Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe | Review | Overview Kevin & Carly 14. Black Diamond - Raven Ice Axe With Grip - Ice axe In customer testing Experiences and reviews Expert advice from professionals A traditional mountaineering ice axe, the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe with Grip features a new dual-density grip on the lower part of the handle and an updated Slider Leash for added security and versatility. The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is designed to give you the greatest comfort and ease of use possible. Jul 17, 2025 · Black Diamond's Raven is a classic ice axe redesigned for modern mountaineering, and the Raven Ice Axe + Grip adds greater security that you can rely on when you're in high, icy places. Up top, the investment-cast, stainless steel head has beautifully curved edges to ensure comfort while walking. We feel the Black Diamond Raven is the best axe you can buy for the money. The aluminum shaft and investment-cast stainless steel head provide durable, classic functionality-whether you’re plunging up a snowy chute or traversing a jagged crevasse field. Mar 9, 2024 · 1. Check out our complete line of ice climbing gear: ice tools, crampons, ice protection, packs and more. The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe with Grip enhances the classic Raven mountaineer’s piolet by integrating a dual-density rubber grip and the updated Slider Leash for improved security and versatility. As gear gets lighter and expeditions get faster, it puts a fresh lens onto the eternal question of balancing performance, weight and cost. The aggressive head has a I am looking to in the future take a trip to the PNW to Mount Baker and Mount Adams and I'm currently doing research on Ice Axes, I am looking at the Black Diamond Raven and the Petzl Glacier, does anyone have any recommendations? Jun 19, 2020 · Amazon. Sep 15, 2017 · Buying an ice axe that’s optimized to be light weight is a funny development in the world of climbing. Shop for ice axes at Whittaker Mountaineering. From the leader in ice climbing gear. This is a refined axe made in aircraft-grade aluminium with a trapezoidal cross-section for a better grip. The ice axe handles well for self arrests and does not seem to suffer in mixed terrains on rocks. If you're going to be flirting with rock or ice (as opposed to snow), Black Diamond's lightweight Raven Ultra makes a strong case for steel. com : Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe with Grip, 55 cm : Sports & OutdoorsAbout this item Durable, trapezoidal cross-section, aircraft-grade aluminum shaft Investment-cast, one-piece stainless-steel head with a large hole for a carabiner Comfortable, dual-density molded grip Pick's curve and teeth engineered for secure self-arresting Equipped with updated Slider Leash When your mountaineering requires a little pick swinging, but not enough to justify a hybrid tool like the Black Diamond Venom (I lost mine, then bought another later) the Raven is a very good choice. The head features a well-designed pick, adze and a hole for a carabiner. With the benefit of the aluminium shaft, it cuts down on the weight without sacrificing the strength of the axe. Overall the most comfortable ice axe I could find and gets the job done when it counts. I don’t always bring it, but there have been times when I didn’t expect to need it, and it’s come in handy as a walking stick and self-arrest tool when ascending or descending steep snow—or ice-covered slopes. Adams, St. Feb 2, 2022 · I use a Black Diamond Raven Ice axe in winter when climbing mountains. At the . 4K subscribers Subscribed Apr 10, 2021 · Check great and honest reviews! BUY Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe. And let's discover why we scored it 9. com : Black Diamond BD41016870 Raven Ice Axe 70 cm : Sports & OutdoorsCurrently unavailable. Shop Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe | 4. 86 Free Returns on some sizes and colors Feb 14, 2024 · The latest version of Black Diamond’s Raven Pro axe now has a slightly bent shaft and a lighter overall weight – all designed to make for a more capable and ergonomic axe. This ice axe is designed for climbing ice Jun 19, 2020 · Product Description Black Diamond's modern take on Chouinard's original curved-pick mountain axe, the Raven Ice Axe is a classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on classic climbs the world over for decades. It’s a lot of glacier with the ability to climb fairly steep slopes without smashing your hands. The less-aggressive shape in the pick makes it not ideal for steep terrain and hard ice, but for most mountain conditions, this axe is just what you need. The raven has an Oct 1, 2001 · A modern version of chouinard's original curved-pick mountain Axe, the Black Diamond raven ice axes is Black Diamond classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on classic climbs the world over for decades. The Raven Pro features an investment cast stainless steel head and spike and lighter aluminum shaft, for the same performance as the Raven Ice Axe, but for a few grams less. Jun 19, 2020 · Black Diamond BD41016960 Raven Ice Axe with Grip 60 cm Visit the BLACK DIAMOND Store 4. It has a straight shaft and head with a very sharp triangular point at the tip. Made for technical mountaineering, the Black Diamond Raven Pro ice axe is now lighter and features a slightly angled, ergonomic trapezoidal shaft for better grip and more aggressive climbing. Mar 21, 2019 · If you only plan to climb easy and moderate mountaineering routes, you could consider saving money and an ounce of weight with the Petzl Glacier or Black Diamond Raven. While the Chouinard was a classic, the Raven with Grip feels much more refined and efficient. Improving on one of the more popular ice axes of all time, Black Diamond gave the Raven a rubber bottom grip to increase comfort and security on steep terrain. com : Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe with Grip - Anodized Light Gray : Sports & OutdoorsAbout this item Durable, aircraft-grade aluminum shaft Investment-cast, one-piece stainless steel head with a large hole for a carabiner Pick's curve and teeth engineered for secure self-arresting Equipped with Slider Leash Weight: 505g, 1 lb 2 ozHead: Head, Spike: Stainless steelShaft: AluminumGrip Black Diamond RAVEN ICE AX ice ax Black Diamond Raven is a light and powerful ice ax suitable for glacier hiking. Jan 16, 2022 · Advnture Verdict A modern hillwalking/mountaineering hybrid axe, the Raven Pro is capable enough to handle even the most demanding winter hillwalking days, as well as classic graded winter scrambles and ridges. Jul 25, 2012 · Guide Pick™: Black Diamond Venom vs Raven Pro Ice Axe w/ Melissa Arnot Whittaker Mountaineering 5. Sitting in Black Diamond's line-up between the mountaineering-oriented Swift and the more sedate Raven, the Raven Pro is well suited to snowy Jan 10, 2019 · This comparison review will focus on lightweight mountaineering axes. It's gained a kinked shaft and lost a bit of weight, and together with some smaller refinements these changes add up to make a better, more ergonomic axe. I kept having to look back to make sure the axe was attached. Effective for basic ice and glacier travel, you could use it for more technical climbing, but I wouldn’t push my luck with it. Modern updates include a lighter feel, redesigned geometry, and a better handle whether you're ascending steep, icy couloirs or traversing glaciers. Much more comfortable than the Petzl Icewalker in my hands. The somewhat limited robustness may deter those who need a heavy-duty axe, but for a fairly strong and sturdy option, this is a great choice. The pick, adze, and spike geometry allow for secure placements, whether you are kicking steps up Aconcagua or winding through crevasse fields on Rainer In this special edition, I review the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe and take it to the cliffs near my side to see how well it fairs in sandy coastal bluffs. Shop crampons, ice axes, ice screws, pick axes & more ice tools today. com : Black Diamond Equipment Raven Ice Axe with Grip - 70 cm : Sports & OutdoorsAbout this item Durable, trapezoidal cross-section, aircraft-grade aluminum shaft Investment-cast, one-piece stainless-steel head with a large hole for a carabiner Comfortable, dual-density molded grip Pick's curve and teeth engineered for secure self-arresting Equipped with updated Slider Leash CEN-B certified Black Diamond's modern take on Chouinard's original curved-pick mountain axe, the Raven Ice Axe is a classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on classic climbs the world over for decades. The line-up includes: Corsa Nanotech Petzl Gully and Ride Grivel Ghost and Ghost Evo Black Diamond Raven Ultra Apr 11, 2024 · The Black Diamond Venom LT brings that level of customization to the ultralight ski axe world. Its classic design, superb construction, and top-notch performance make it a must-have for adventurers who frequently venture into icy landscapes. Best of all, it is aggressively priced compared to most of its modular or higher-performing competition. The investment-cast, curved, stainless steel head's shape 2 days ago · Black Diamond's modern take on Chouinard's original curved-pick mountain axe, the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on classic climbs the world over for decades. Climb higher with the Black Diamond Raven ice axe with Grip. Check great and honest reviews! BUY Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe. Version modernisée du modèle d’origine Chouinard à lame incurvée, le Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe est un piolet d’alpinisme traditionnel. The only downside while riding is the axe is very sharp, so while attached to your backcountry pack make sure you have Mar 16, 2025 · The original Black Diamond Raven Pro, with a straight shaft and classically curved stainless steel head, has been my personal ice axe of choice for the last nine years. We don't know when or if this item will be back in stock. com : BLACK DIAMOND Raven Pro Ice Axe : Sports & OutdoorsVisit the BLACK DIAMOND Store 4. It's light enough to bring along "just in case" and fills a lot of needs. Explore Black Diamond's ice & alpine climbing equipment for your next mountain adventure. The Venom directly addresses the dilemma of having to choose between a general mountaineering axe and a technical ice tool. Oct 9, 2014 · It is a fantastic lightweight axe with a stainless steel pick that actually works in ice, and an adze that is very effective in chopping steps. An all-around mountaineering axe will be used for many Mar 9, 2024 · 1. Qualified orders eligible for FREE S&H and FREE RETURNS. Sep 12, 2018 · The Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe weighs 13 oz. Such is the case with Black Diamond's Venom ice axe. At the Gear Review Black Diamond Venom mountaineering: yes technical ice: yes rugged: yes 17oz Every now and then a piece of gear comes along that changes the paradigm. The stainless steel head is designed for years of dependable use. Secure axe when not in use. Harking back to Yvon Chouinard’s original curved-pick mountain axe, Black Diamond’s Raven ice axe is a classic piolet for traditional winter walks and alpine climbs. In fact, compared to the Raven, the Glacier is lighter, self-arrests smoother, and climbs steep snow better, while the Raven offers a better price tag. It's offered in lengths from 55 cm to 90 cm. It is equipped with a durable straight aluminum shaft and stainless-steel head. Ice axes have a rich history and play a crucial role in mountaineering and glacier travel. 95-$219. It combines the classic mountaineer's axe, the Raven, with a dual-density rubber grip and Slider leash for security and versatility. 3 14 ratings Features: The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a traditional mountaineering piolet. Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe available at Ultralight Outdoor Gear with FREE UK+EU Delivery, in-depth reviews, tech specs & helpful advice. Consult local regulations for safe disposal. The one-piece stainless steel head has an aggressive pick geometry and a large hole for attaching a carabiner. ydkki rdtz jsia luzk nfbfnl aamz wlhl udmo pnz irwdmjq