Too heavy, the shaft is too thick, not enough weight in the head, don't buy this axe. Get the BD Raven instead, or go really light and get the Grivel Air Tech or the BD Raven Pro. There are better tools for the money.

This is great axe. It is perfect for basic mountaineering and snow climbing. Very solid construction and REI's name. I like the fact that they come in many sizes (80cm) for us tall folks. Great price too!

Customer Service

REI's returns policy is awesome--no reciept needed. Never really had to return anything cause of defects, though!

This is a great axe to beat the crap out of. Versitile for day hiking, backpacking, or mountaineering. The only wear and tear that is has sufferred is that some of the plastic at the top of the shaft has broken away while trying to bang in snow pickets. It's a little havy at 1 lb 11 oz.

Similar Products Used:

Stubai Blue Star, which performed almost identically.