Grivel Nepal S.A. Ice Axe with Leash

I've had it about a month or so now and already used it multiple times, it's saved me, literally! I love the light weight of it. Haven't had an issue with the spike protector breaking yet. Leash adjustment doesn't work too well for me but I have a tiny wrist. Also I am 5'4" and bought the 66cm. It's almost perfect for me but I think I could have went a size longer. So far no complains!

I've had mine for a long time, it was my first axe and I've never thought of replacing it. The length is perfect, works great building anchors, light and very effective when self arresting. Works great climbing also.



Only thing is the leash, it gets tiring trying to switch hands while cutting switch backs constantly. The spike protector broke within about ten minutes, not a huge deal. I ended up removing the hand leash and opted to just tie off onto my harness to ease changing hands.



Beginner or pro, this axe will suit. I promise ;)

I've been using it on Baker , Rainier and the North Cascades. I like the leash and the shape, it gives a good hold. The spike protector that is linked to the leash will break if you are not gentle with it, its a good idea. Its my first axe, been using it for 2 years.

My son likes the shape and length. It would be nice if the "shovel" end was a little wider and deeper. Reasonable weight for the size.

One thing we've learned about axes... Get the longest available unless you are doing verticle climbing. My son's Nepal is 74cm, mine is a Stubai Tour Lite 85cm. The first axes we had were 55cm and 60cm, and were basically just dead wieght in the hand unless we were on very steep terrain. The longer ones can be used as a walking stick and will give you extra reach when you are on the snow and rocks. I use my 85cm alot, my 60cm spent most of its life strapped to my backpack. IMO

My son is 5' 8"

I'm 5' 10"

This was my first ice axe and it treated me well. A little heavier than other things out there, but I found that I liked the curve of the shaft more than it's straight shafted counterparts. The curve made it easier to press your chest against the shaft and leverage more weight onto the pick when in a self arrest position. Added leash is a nice bonus.
I'm 5'9" and used a 66cm axe for general mountaineering for sizing purposes.

I bought this axe for a mountaineering course in the north cascades. For an entry level axe I cant complain. Its not the lightest, but its comfortable to hold. The axe is meant to be held in self-belay grip (pick forward) the adze is large and good to grip, but it lacks and adze hole. The curve of the shaft is good for holding the axe in traction, and the included leash just makes the deal even better. The pic is using the axe for building a snow anchor