[pct-l] ice ax

[Jim & Jane Moody]

Hey, Skyeward, 



Based on my vast experience of 1/2 of a PCT hike and 3 days at Ned's University of Snow, here's my suggestions.  First, I've been told the proper length is determined by holding the pointy end between your thumb and forefinger and swinging the axe.  It should just graze the ground.  Second, I would make sure my ice axe was plenty sturdy - even it weighs a few ounces more.  When you're self-arresting is no time to find out your ice axe is a li ttle too flimsy. 



Good luck, 

Mango 



----- Original Message -----


From: "shelly skye" <shelbel26 at gmail.com> 
To: pct-l at backcountry.net 
Sent: Friday, October 21, 2011 12:22:53 PM 
Subject: [pct-l] ice ax 

All-righty, I'm getting ready to buy my ice ax for next year. I am looking 
at a C.A.M.P.Corsa, 60cm that weighs 205 gm. I am 5'3" with average arm 
length (I think) so I am guessing this would be the correct length for me. 
The other option is a 70cm but that seems overly long from the safety and 
comfort of my desk. Does anyone have any thoughts or suggestions that might 
help me with this decision? BTY, I have some experience with snow camping 
but none with exposure to steep hillsides with big boulders at the bottom. 
Oh, and I will be signing up for Ned's class come winter. (Thanks Ned!) 

-- 
Shelly 
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