Ice Axe

An ice axe is a multi purpose tool used by mountaineers climbing and descending routes that cross snow or ice. On gentle slopes it works as a walking stick, on steeper ground it can be swung pick first into snow or ice for extra grip, or buried in snow to anchor a rope for belaying. It is built from at least five parts, a steel head carrying a pick and an adze, a shaft that was traditionally wood but is now usually a lightweight metal or composite, a spike at the base, and often a wrist leash. Beyond aiding the climb itself, the ice axe lets a climber self arrest, using the pick to stop a fall while descending.