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Backcountry Access Companion EXT Shovel
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Backcountry Access Companion EXT Shovel
An extendable 40-inch-long shaft? Sweet. We’re talking, of course, about the Backcountry Access Companion EXT Shovel. This shovel extends to an optimal length for digging, while the flat back makes clean snowpit columns for study and predictions. A reversible, offset D-grip feels natural in your gloved hand. If you have Backcountry Access’ stowable Companion Probe, the probe will slip up inside the shaft of this EXT Shovel.
Bottom Line: Forty inches for fast, smooth digging.
Talk shop with all the gear freaks out there: ask 'em questions, upload/browse photos, and give your 2¢.
Excellent All-Around Shovel
By: Jonathan S. Shefftz
August 29, 2009
This is an excellent all-around shovel. The weight is reasonable for touring, especially given the large blade size and long telescoping shaft. To save a few ounces, you bring only part of the shaft so as to make the shovel into a fixed-length model.
The blade is relatively flat, which might be less efficient for moving snow, although it's great for snowpit work. (Pic is of me -- far right -- teaching an avy course, at which I coulda sworn I had brought this shovel, although I don't see it in the pic.)
I'm a bit surprised that BCA got rid of the D-grip in favor of a T-grip for a shovel this size. But if you always wear gloves (instead of mittens), then a T-grip is fine for many folks.
Change me.
Tech Specs:
- Shaft Material:
- 6061 Series aluminum
- Blade Material:
- 6061 Series aluminum
- Extendable:
- Yes
- Assembled Length:
- 30-40.5in (71-103cm)
- Blade Size:
- 10 x 10.75in (25 x 28cm)
- Weight:
- 26oz (731g)
- Recommended Use:
- Avalanche rescue, digging snow pits
- Manufacturer Warranty:
- 1 year
- Country of Origin:
- China






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