The Helix 4.5 oz Ice Axe

by on January 24, 2006

I’ve used the new Helix Carbon Fiber Ice Axe for two ski mountaineering couloir ascents now. All I can say is: awesome!

My two 55 cm axes – with custom wrist leashes (AirCore Pro Rope) and a bit of sticky paint to roughen up the lower shaft – weigh 10 ounces – COMBINED. Two tools! Yeah, ya think?

I know, I know. These are not rated tools. Nor should they be treated as such.

So don’t fall.

But for couloir climbing on neve where an experienced ski mountaineer’s risk of falling is low – they are unbeatable.

And think of the possibilities that experienced snow hikers and mountaineers could at least dream about with axes this light.

Bottom line: they are an absolute joy to hold in your hand and use.

And that, friends, is the most important criteria for any piece of gear.

  • PIT

    don´t fall?
    What´s the point? of one axe not recomended for arrest?
    a pole is lighter ¿?¿?¿

  • Evan

    Dear Ryan,
    You are correct, we are adults, and when provided with accurate information can make wise choices for ourselves. This is why I dearly respect and enjoy your web site and products.
    Regards this axe, could you or the company furnish us some kind of rating or at least some testing to see what the failure point is for this axe? I personally would like to see under self arrest situations what amount of force it handles and does ot handle. Otherwise, I don’t see the way I can choose to use this.
    Sooner or later we all own general, that is failing to plan for falls is planning to fail. No criticisms here, only a request!
    Evan

  • tom brogan

    At this point has any testing to failure been done on the Helix? I don’t care that it is not certified by any current standards, but I would like some strength info so I can decide for myself if the Helix is appropriate for me.

  • Jason Brinkman

    Not sure if you have been following the BPL discussion, but the testing being performed and lessons being learned on the DIY Ice Axe Project are probably directly applicable to the Helix.