I have an old black diamond shovel that is HUGE, like the deploy 7. While I don't mind someone else carrying it I prefer to lug around this little guy. This shovel is light and durable. I can barely feel it in my bag and it does the job.

This one's handy in my trunk when not in my pack. I tried it out in my back yard with the heavy, late snowfall this May - strong and quick - 'sWhat you need. The Traverse EXT is lightweight and well-designed.

Easy to store, assemble quickly, and sturdy. Dug a few pits so far, and no problemas. I like the weight savings and how easily it fits into my BD Ascent 30 daypack for skiing and mountaineering.

I was debating between this shovel and the Black Diamond Deploy series. I choose this one and I have not been disappointed. I dont do extreme climbing and so I dont have any avalanche experience with it (hopefully wont ever) but whenever I am out in the snow, this goes with me. Snowshoeing, winter camping, this is great tool to have. Very light weight and functional, and very easy to extend. Blade is very good. Highly recommended.

great shovel, not too big to get into your pack and not too small to shovel some snow. It will have trouble shoveling if the snow is so hard it is almost ice.

Fortunately I have not had to use it so far this year. It packs great into my Stash pack and leaves plenty of room for additional gear. After my avalanch class I will let you know on how well the shovel works.