[pct-l] Ice Axe Lengths

[montedodge at msn.com (MONTE ANN DODGE)]

  Perfect ice axe length for the PCT hiker? One that fits flat in the palm of your hand when touching the floor. ( Real world!!)
  Advantages of a short ice axe are saving of weight ( And maybe climbing a frozen waterfall while frontpointing for a feature shot for Outside magazine!)
  Disadvantages are several. Shorts handles don't self belay as well as longer handles. Also less control of axe( Glissading) longer handle has more control.  Shorter axes are more likely to end you in your ribs during fall. Walking download with a short ice axe sucks!! Esp. in soft snow. On Rainier, short axes dangle worthlessly as they come downhill and don't help to prevent slipping whil a longer axe becoming a third leg and quite helpful. ( Same applies in Sierras comedown Forester Pass and others)
  With all the new light ice axes today, even a longer axe is quite light.