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DMM Cirque

rated 4.5 of 5 stars
photo: DMM Cirque mountaineering axe/piolet

My first axe.

Pros

  • Fully T-rated (not just the pick)
  • Good silicon grip
  • Fair price
  • Standard lease

Cons

  • Somehow heavy
  • No protectors available

When I started looking for an ice axe I came across a lot of options for general mountaineering use, but not a single one included a sturdy technical grade one. I wouldn't know if a basic grade axe could withstand anything else than basically walking on soft snow so I really wanted a technical one but not something "exotic". So a hybrid axe it is!


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For now it's just walking and cutting steps since I never encountered a glacier in Crete to give it a go on ice, but I feel confident when the time comes due to its full T-rating.

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I've been using it for two winter. Sounds like a GoT thing right? (lol)

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Not the lightest one...I know.
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"Handmade" protection.
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BTW, do you guys think that BD's spike and pick protection will cover DMM's as well?
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Feels comfortable enough to the hand, though it doesn't have the BD's ergonomics.
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The silicon grip is great when cutting steps and somewhat insulating from cold as well. Just wish it had arm rest as option.
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Forgot to mention that the leash is included as standard.

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: 90 EU

Excellent mountaineering axe for more technical use.

Pros

  • Good weight
  • Durable
  • Slight curve

This is a excellent lightweight mountaineering axe. It is very useful in all situations. It has a slight curve, making it excellent for swinging. It's worth practicing arrests with it if you aren't used to curved tools. It's comfortable in the hand and just all a round great mountaineering axe. 

It works great on glaciers, and performs well on steep sow gullies. I couldn't be happier. I do wish it had an adjustable plastic handle. 

Source: bought it used
Price Paid: £30

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