Alpine & Mountaineering: 1. Ice Axe Positions | Climbing Tech Tips

Subscribe to our channel for the latest training videos, climbing tutorials and more! In this video we review considerations for ice axe positions. The ice axe is the symbol of mountaineering. When used correctly, it can be one of the most versatile tools a climber employs in the mountains. There are many ways the ice axe is used and held to help climbers with ascending and descending snow and ice. When and where to choose these different hand positions depends on: - Ability and/or desired security - Firmness of the snow - Steepness of the slope - Consequences of a slip and fall Below are the various ice axe positions used in alpine & mountaineering: Cane - On relatively flat terrain, or with gentle slopes such as glaciers and snowfields, it’s best to use the axe in the “cane position.” As it sounds, hold the axe on top of the head, with fingers wrapped around the pick and the adze. The shaft and the spike are placed on the mountain surface, and the whole tool is used like a walking cane. Self Arrest