How to Use an Ice Ax

An ice ax is an extremely valuable--some say essential--tool for navigating through icy and mountainous terrain. Far from being a tool of convenience, an ice ax can be the difference between life and death on a frigid slope. Follow these steps to correctly use an ice ax.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Use the ice ax for self-arrest. Self-arrest is the essential maneuver of stopping yourself from falling or sliding down the side of an icy or snowy slope. The ice ax is by far the most valuable tool you have to self-arrest. Orient yourself face-down with your feet toward the valley. Dig the pick of the ice ax into the snow or ice, holding the ax with one hand on the shaft and the other on the head of the ax.

2. Carve stairs into ice. If you're facing a tricky but manageable icy slope, you can use the adze of the ice ax to carve stairs into the slope. The adze is the blunt, stub-nosed end of the ice ax, usually opposite the pick. Set to work on the impromptu stairs carefully, and take all the time needed to safely complete the project.

3. Use the spike for stabilization. The spike, sometimes called a ferrule, can help stabilize you as you walk up slippery or craggy paths. Make sure the spike is sharp before you use it on serious climbing treks. Give the spike a firm push into the ground you're on. If you're walking on rocky terrain, you can wedge it into the nooks of the rocks, but be careful not to blunt or break the spike.

4. Stow the ice ax properly. When you're climbing and do not need to use your ice ax, keep the ax in a proper position. Most backpacking packs come with a loop designed for an ice ax. Place the ice ax in the loop that hangs under the bottom of the pack. Twist the pick up so that instead the pick end hanging down, it points up. Secure the pick end of the ice ax to the side of the pack, covering it with a cork or a piece of rubber if necessary.