Purchased with the grip and removed it the day I got the axe. I've carried this axe with me in the Whites a few times and despite the fact its a little heavy it has always come in handy and served me well. Have not arrested with it yet but have used it on Willeys Slide in NH because of the lack of owning my own ice tools. Performed well.

Customer Service

Never dealt with Black Diamond CS

While I can definately say the axe is sturdy and well suited to mountaineering I would recommend a lighter axe as this one is on the portly side.

Customer Service

Not necessary

Solid performer. Bit on the heavy side, but not terribly so. Self arrests like a beauty and it has a comfortable head to hold on to for the long all day climbs. Adze is a little different, but the advantages can be seen easily in hard snow or ice. Whatever you do just don't get the grip (not personal experience).

Similar Products Used:

None