Why We Like The Raven Ice Axe + Grip
Black Diamond's Raven is a classic ice axe redesigned for modern mountaineering, and the Raven Ice Axe + Grip adds greater security that you can rely on when you're in high, icy places. Modern updates include a lighter feel, redesigned geometry, and a better handle whether you're ascending steep, icy couloirs or traversing glaciers. The investment-cast, curved, stainless steel head's shape improves handling for traverses, and it has a large hole for carabiners of any size. The dual-density, molded grip gives comfy traction, and the Slider Leash solidifies security so you can breathe a little easier through the cruxiest sections of the climb.
Details
- Classic ice axe gets a grip on mountaineering missions
- Redesigned geometry grants a lighter a feel and better handling
- Trapezoidal, aluminum shaft with grippy cross-section
- Updated pick and adze geometry allows secure placements
- Investment-cast stainless steel pick and adze for solid strength
- Also equipped with a Slider Leash and molded grip for greater security
- Item #BLDZ9C0
- Material
- [shaft] aluminum, [head, spike] stainless steel
- Length
- 55cm, 60cm, 65cm, 70cm, 75cm
- Rating
- B-rated
- Leash Included
- Slider
- Claimed Weight
- 1lb 1oz
- Manufacturer Warranty
- 1 year
Reviews
Q&A
What do you think about this product?
Overall Rating
4.5 based on 16 ratings
Review Summary
Customer Images
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Selecting an option will reload the available reviews on the pageMarch 13, 2025
Great Beginners Axe
Got this specific axe since it has the hand grip and leash attached. However, I like the idea of the elastic leash so you have more versatility between connecting the leash to your harness or your wrist depending on the terrain you’re in. This axe has gotten me up Helen’s twice, Adam’s twice, and Baker (+other spicy early spring climbs)! Hoping to score GP and Rainier this year. Although I feel like I shouldn’t have to say this, the pick and the spike of the axe are very sharp (as they should be for self-arrest)! For the beginners out there, make sure you practice a lot with this axe in controlled zones before doing your climb. I’ve seen people glissading down Adams wildly out of control with an axe and you can easily puncture yourself or someone below you if the axe isn’t used properly. Durability seems great. The hand grip has taken a beating against rock when attached the pack and still looks good. I always let the axe dry out after climbs before putting the pick protectors on so water doesn’t stay stuck in there. Cheers for all the epic climbs in the future!
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
December 29, 2024
Good friend for hiking and backcountry skiing
I like this version with the good grip at the base, I choose it a little bit too long for splitboarding (backpack issue) but it's perfect for hicking in winter condition.
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
August 23, 2023
A classic that holds up to time
Having owned a previous version of this ice axe, the new version with a grip and lease was a no brainier. Should last decades.
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
August 14, 2023
Very nice
Ordered this for a trip to the Alps and as not used it yet the weight and balance and great construction makes me wish we had another one.
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
March 14, 2023
I’m pleased with my purchase.
I’m pleased with my purchase. It served me well in my assault on Terminal Cancer Couloir.
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
March 4, 2023
Great axe
Haven’t needed it yet but it feels sturdy and strong. Really light too
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
January 15, 2023
Great first axe
I’ve already been to a few bald peaks in the adk with this bad boy and it’s served me well. It’s not incredibly necessary in such environments but always a good thing to have. I’ve self arrested twice with it after slipping when wearing micro spikes (should’ve switched to crampons but thought I would be fine) neither was particularly life threading and the axe did it’s job. It’s very lightweight for how durable it is too. Im quite a big fan, and im sure as I tackle more and more extreme environments I’ll find things it could do better, as my first axe that I’m not just borrowing it gets the job done and does it well. I highly recommend looking up a sizing chart if you’re unfamiliar with mountaineering axes, as the one I would borrow from my buddy was too long for me and uncomfortable to carry around and didn’t give good support going up an icy bald peak. I made sure I sized This one right when I got it and it feels great to use as a balance on the way up those exposed frozen scrambles.
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
December 15, 2022
Do everything mountain tool.
The perfect axe for ski mountaineering and general mountain travel. Can use as a piolet, overhead axe or to chop steps.
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
September 29, 2022
The product arrived undamaged. I
The product arrived undamaged. I like how light it is and seems to be durable. Can't wait to see it in action.
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
July 7, 2022
Great Purchase
Thrilled with my purchase and performed well on Mt. Rainier!
Originally reviewed on blackdiamondequipment.com
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