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Post by kensmall on Apr 30, 2013 9:54:34 GMT -8
In the section "How to Carry an Ice Ax" (p. 331), the text says that when carrying the ax on your pack '[k]eep guards on the pick, adze, and spike.' Maybe my memory is failing me but I can't recall ever seeing anyone do this. Certainly, it isn't a widespread practice and, in my opinion, has little to recommend it. The reduction in risk seems negligible and the additional weight, at least to us gram weenies, is, well, extra weight. I suggest we eliminate the imperative sentence and just say that some climbers follow this practice.
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Post by nicklyle on May 17, 2013 16:49:42 GMT -8
In Switzerland it is the law; you must keep your points covered in public places. I sometimes leave an adze cover on, but often do not use the others. I have to admit though, one of my few mountaineering injuries was self-inflicted with an ice ax pick while walking up a trail.
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Post by nicklyle on Jul 29, 2013 18:17:36 GMT -8
By far the best (easiest to use, robust and long-wearing) ice ax pick-guard I have used is a short length of garden hose that was provided with an ax I bought in London. You just cut a length that remains a bit long when it is jammed on the pick. My piece is about a 3-1/2 inch length of light plastic garden hose in a nice green plaid. I use the same old bit of hose on all my axes now since none of the other covers have held up.
The spike seems less of a hazard and seldom gets covered. Nick Lyle
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Post by steveglenn on Aug 1, 2013 8:39:20 GMT -8
I am not sure that Ken's suggested rule is wise - at least if set at 2% - but I agree that we should reduce imperative language to a more reasonable level. Most language on carrying axes can be reduced to the equivalent of "when carrying an ax, either in hand or on the pack, a little proactive caution will reduce the need for reactive first aid."
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