As with other AUSTRIALPIN products, this ice axe has been thoroughly thought through – every gramme serves a purpose. The steep-ice axe weighs 620 grammes and is available in green and blue, with stylish colour combinations included. The K.ICE.R comes fitted with an ice pick as standard; this can be swapped for the separately available mixed-terrain or hollow pick in just a few simple steps. A hammer head can be fitted as an option.
Not only can the pick be changed, but its angle can also be adjusted – and that is precisely what makes the K.ICE.R a reliable all-round tool. There are five angles to choose from: ranging from very aggressive to the geometry of a Classic ice axe.
The handle is also customisable and can be adjusted to suit both small and large hands in a matter of seconds. The end of the handle features an unusually large grip section: a disc with a spike on the underside prevents slipping when the K.ICE.R is used as a support ice axe, and helps with attaching leashes.
How does the K.ICE.R perform in practice? First of all: it’s every bit as good as steep-ice crampons from other manufacturers. It was tested on relatively gentle slopes such as the ‘Easy Afternoon’ in theSellraintal and on the steep pillars of ‘Das Problem’ in theTirolean Oberland – with enthusiasm for the tool’s momentum and geometry. Even on gentle terrain, it’s a pleasure to use, without compromising safety on steep hooks. The large grip rest really comes into its own on steep sections: thanks to its disc shape, the edge of your hand rests on it, taking the strain off your fingers.
The only drawback: the bare upper grip rest. Unlike other manufacturers, no rubber coating has been used here at all – bare aluminium is slippery and gets cold over time when Ice Climbing. However, a bit of tape quickly solves the problem.
The K.ICE.R. also impresses on steep mixed and dry-tooling routes – such as in thePinnistal. In just a few simple steps, it transforms into a genuine mixed/dry-tooling weapon, whilst the angle adjustment of the pick is second to none. The large plate at the end of the handle really comes into its own on overhanging routes: rarely have ‘figure fours’ (an advanced dry-tooling technique for long moves) felt so easy – your hand literally sticks to the handle, and your fingers need to exert less force.
Fancy giving Ice Climbing a go yourself? Then take a look at our guide to Ice Climbing for Beginners.
The K.ICE.R from AUSTRIALPIN is a true all-rounder that can tackle everything from north faces and steep ice falls to challenging mixed and dry-tooling routes. It scores extra points for being manufactured entirely in Austria – made in Austria.
Tips & Safety
Would you like to know more about climbing safety? Click here for our safety tips.
