Black Diamond Venom Adze 25/26

The Black Diamond Venom Adze is a technical ice axe for ski mountaineering, glacier routes and moderate snow climbs. It pairs an aluminum, asymmetric angled shaft with an integrated grip and a stainless steel head carrying a Classic Curve Mountain Classic pick, fully interchangeable with any other Black Diamond pick. A sliding FlickLock pommel adds an adjustable second grip, and it weighs 1 lb 3 oz.

The trade-off is that it splits the difference between tools. Black Diamond describes it as the precision of an ice tool with the alpine function of a piolet, so it is a versatile all-rounder rather than a dedicated steep-ice tool.

It is for ski mountaineers and alpine climbers moving light and fast who want one axe that swings well on firm snow and ice and still handles everyday glacier travel.

The Venom Adze is offered in several shaft lengths. The sliding FlickLock pommel lets you choke up on steep slopes, adding a second hand position whichever length you choose.

We think the Venom Adze is a fantastic one-axe quiver for spring couloirs and big-mountain ski objectives, light on the pack and confident in hand.