Security

By Dave Watson Ranked #52 - Telemark Skiing December 20, 2009

The claw is a critical part of my ski mountaineering kit. I climb with skis on my back, ice axe in one hand and the claw in the other. The pole (claw) is shortened so I can have my hand in the handle while using it on steep terrain. And so I can use it as a walking stick (piolet) on the glaciers, then I can carry a technical axe (50cm) for added security in the gnar. This may be considered a "self-arrest" pole grip but like stated above-is not a substitute for an ice axe. This will give you security while climbing or trekking through ice-falls and scrambling. Hopefully it gives you enough stability/security that you won't fall. If you do, good luck, hope you have an axe or have your arrest technique(s) dialed. Knuckle guard is key, unless you like punching ice. Used this for ski descents on Everest, K2, Broad Peak and loads of stuff in Kashmir.

View Details: Life-Link Guide Claw Pole Grip

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