Backcountry Access Companion System Shovel/Probe - 2005 BCS

I wear this system when I patrol on the mountain. When I go out to train I find that everything is right there stowed nicely. The construction of both the shovel and probe is top of the line. This has rounded out my A/C system with my beacon. I would recommend this to anyone that is a Pro or just going into the backcountry.

I struggle to think of anything bad to say about this shovel/probe combo. It's small, light, and robust. I love the fact that the probe is stored within the shaft: it protects the probe, and is one less critical item to forget when packing for the backcountry.

Some hard-core ski patrollers or gnarly old-school mountain men might complain that the probe is too short. But frankly, if it's small and light, I'm more likely to leave it in my pack, and there's no better argument than that.

(I make the same case for LED headlamps, that some old crusties claim are insufficiently bright.)

Excellent shovel and probe. The lightest and strongest on the market.

What can I say, the BCA Companion system rocks! Integration with the excellent probe and the option of bringing along the extension handle are great features. Once again, BCA offers the highest quality product at a fair price.

I bought the telescopic model and couldn't be more pleased. A durable shovel and the fact that the probe is always handy are great features.

REM7600 in Idaho

The BCA Companion shovel is a great shovel for those who venture off-piste, but are not backcountry warriors. The shovel is nice and light but way too small for serious digging. The probe in the handle is a nice feature, but would take ridiculously too long in an emergency to take out. Overall a great shovel for those who only venture away from the front side once-in-a-while.