i own the venom and got a chance to climb a short pitch (100ft) of W3/W3+ with it. it felt just fine and got the job done with no problems. unfortunately i have not had the chance to play with the cosmitech. however a few observations are: the venom has a touch more curve in the shaft. The pick on the petzl has much more recurve in the pick which is great for ice climbing however from what i understand is less suitable for self-arrest. Also the venom is available with a hammer which is a nice option for pounding pins. hope this helps

I was hoping for that, too. I'm looking to get one or the other, and don't know yet which one. I've swung the venom like an ice tool, and it felt nice, but I've never actully held a cosmi'tec in my hand. They weigh more or less the same (the cosmi'tec is a hair lighter) and the venom has a rubber grip and a replaceable pick. I'm probably going to get the Petzl because I prefer no grip when plunging the shaft in hard snow.