I don’t often hike or backpack in the winter, but, when I do, I like to have an ice axe with me as a precautionary measure… I like to be prepared, even though I was never a boy scout.

Now, Having done a lot of research into Ice Axes – the popular consensus is that bent-shaft ice axes are for vertical and ice climbing. And that straight-shaft ice axes are for general use. Mainly self-arresting.

Now, I’d like to open this to comments – as I want to hear feedback on this. I am not an ice climber… just your average hiker. I probably will not get into ice climbing either. Gravity, heights, and me don’t get along too well… they never have. I am constantly battling gravity every moment of every single day… and I will ultimately lose in the end.

I want to know, which do you prefer for general use? Bent or straight shaft ice axes? Leave your opinions in the comments!

While I know how to self-arrest, I have fortunately never have had a live scenario where I needed to save myself plummeting to an icy grave on a hillside in the winter*.

PROS for bent-shaft ice axes:

• Leverage.
• Additional power for gripping.
• Better angle for digging in.

CONS for bent-shaft ice axes:

• “They”say that straight is better.
• Not as good for checking snow depth/safety.
• I use trekking poles – not an issue.

Since I have a winter hiking trip coming up, the time is coming for a purchase of a new ice axe… I want to hear what the public thinks on this to help me decide!

If you have any interest, these are the two I am looking

• Bent Shaft: Stubai Hornet Ice Axe – Hammer
• Straight Shaft: Black Diamond Raven w/Grip

Thank you and happy holidays! May the underside of your tree be loaded with backpacks and stuffsacks and little SOL gadgets!

* now that I said that… I just jinxed myself, and my wife will someday soon become bloody rich!