The Petzl Ride Ice Axe is a versatile, lightweight, and compact option that can easily be brought on a variety of outdoor adventures. With a curved shape to increase user efficiency and lightweight construction, this ice axe is a good choice for outdoorsmen of any skill level.
The Petzl Summit 2 Mountaineering Axe is a durable, functional, and easy-to-use option that provides good all-around capabilities and is a reliable and sturdy choice in various climbing scenarios. Despite being expensive and not the best on ice, this mountaineering axe provides a high level of functionality and compatibility for a climber looking for versatility.
The Petzl Summit Evo Ice Axe is a technical and versatile option that works well on basic mountaineering, hill walking, cutting steps, and digging into snow. There are better axes for continuous ice use and cutting, but for routes up to Grade III, this axe can last a whole career in the mountains.
The Petzl Glacier Ice Axe is a lightweight, aggressively-toothed, and functionally-designed axe. It is not ideal for consistently steep routes or use as a walking aid due to the shaft length. For those who want a lightweight option that is easy to carry and deploy, this is a great choice.
The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe with Grip is a functional, versatile, and easy-to-use ice axe that has proven to be a good all-around option on the mountain. The less-aggressive shape in the pick makes it not ideal for steep terrain and hard ice, but for most mountain conditions, this axe is just what you need.
The Black Diamond Raven Ultra Ice Axe is an easy-to-carry, relatively strong, and lightweight option for those who want to save weight on extended trips, and want a convenient axe to carry efficiently. The somewhat limited robustness may deter those who need a heavy-duty axe, but for a fairly strong and sturdy option, this is a great choice.
The Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe is a lighter version of a classic ice axe, and designed for those looking to shave some weight from their packs. The sleek top makes it easy and comfortable to hold throughout the day, and its durability gives it extreme longevity, even under heavy use. The major downfall of this axe is its wider pick that is much better suited for soft snow than for ice and firmer snowpacks. Despite this, the Raven Pro is quickly becoming a classic that is especially loved by beginner mountaineers.