I've been using this axe for about a year since I purchased it here. I only use it for backcountry skiing around the Wasatch. It's extremely light and packable. It fits nicely on a daypack when going light. But when needed for a belay or a scamper up some steep exposed terrain, it fits the bill. Many I know take a hacksaw to traditional ice axes in order to make a similar device. Its price and portability make it second to none.

I bought these tools for my 10-year-old daughter to use as primary ice tools while climbing in Ouray and other S. CO waterfalls. She climbed several 100ft vertical ice falls. Wow, they are light, and stick really well for a 10 year old girl's swing! Wish they made a bent shaft tool for kids, but until then, these work great!!!

Bought the axe as a gift to my son, who is a budding mountaineer. The axe is surprisingly strong, light, and compact. Fits great and is well balanced. We went immediately out hiking and found an icy trail and he was able to use it to control slides, chip steps and make holds. Will need to locate the same axe with a hammer head now to complete the set.