What do B and T mean on an ice axe?

EN 13089 classifies ice tools as Type 1 (B, basic) or Type 2 (T, technical). Basic axes are intended for walking and general mountaineering on snow and ice, while technical tools pass higher strength requirements for the shaft and pick and suit technical climbing. The A970 in this range is rated B type.

How do I choose the right ice axe length?

Longer axes are easier to use as a walking aid and to plunge into snow on moderate slopes, while shorter axes are easier to swing on steeper ground. A range offered from 60 to 80 cm, like the A950 and A960, lets a brand cover both uses. Many retailers publish a sizing guide based on user height and intended terrain.

Why choose a curved shaft?

A curve in the upper shaft gives knuckle clearance and a more natural swing when planting the pick in firm snow or ice. It is useful on steeper alpine terrain, while a straight shaft plunges more easily into snow for walking support. The A960 in this range has a curved shaft.

What should an ice axe RFQ include?

State the lengths and quantity split, head and shaft finish, grip or leash options, marking and packaging, and the standard and classification required for the target market. Power Honour can supply the listed axes as OEM or private-label products and quote modifications to a customer drawing.

Ice Tools

Ice Axes

3 products

This category covers ice axes for mountaineering, glacier travel and winter walking. All three models pair a steel head and spike with an aluminium alloy shaft: the A950 is listed in 60, 65, 70, 75 and 80 cm lengths, the A960 has a curved shaft and is offered from 60 to 80 cm, and the A970 is a beginner axe rated B type under CE EN 13089. Axes of this kind are used for balance, step cutting, plunging into snow as an anchor and self-arrest. In Europe, ice tools are tested to EN 13089, which classifies them as Type 1 (B, basic) or Type 2 (T, technical), with technical tools tested to higher loads. Each model can be supplied OEM or private label, with shaft length, grip, leash and marking specified by the brand owner.

Products

3 products

Frequently asked questions

What do B and T mean on an ice axe?: EN 13089 classifies ice tools as Type 1 (B, basic) or Type 2 (T, technical). Basic axes are intended for walking and general mountaineering on snow and ice, while technical tools pass higher strength requirements for the shaft and pick and suit technical climbing. The A970 in this range is rated B type.
How do I choose the right ice axe length?: Longer axes are easier to use as a walking aid and to plunge into snow on moderate slopes, while shorter axes are easier to swing on steeper ground. A range offered from 60 to 80 cm, like the A950 and A960, lets a brand cover both uses. Many retailers publish a sizing guide based on user height and intended terrain.
Why choose a curved shaft?: A curve in the upper shaft gives knuckle clearance and a more natural swing when planting the pick in firm snow or ice. It is useful on steeper alpine terrain, while a straight shaft plunges more easily into snow for walking support. The A960 in this range has a curved shaft.
What should an ice axe RFQ include?: State the lengths and quantity split, head and shaft finish, grip or leash options, marking and packaging, and the standard and classification required for the target market. Power Honour can supply the listed axes as OEM or private-label products and quote modifications to a customer drawing.

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