Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems Review

First Impressions of Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems

The Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems is an ice axe designed for technical alpinism and ice climbing, featuring an interchangeable head and the innovative G-bone shaft. Grivel, a name synonymous with quality climbing gear, aims to deliver a lightweight yet robust tool that excels in demanding conditions. From the initial product description, the promise of a carbon fiber shaft combined with an interchangeable head caught my attention, hinting at versatility and weight savings crucial for long days in the mountains.

My climbing partner recently suffered a shoulder injury, forcing me to re-evaluate our gear for upcoming alpine objectives. I needed a lighter axe, something that wouldn’t unduly tax my partner’s weakened shoulder while still providing the necessary performance for steep ice and mixed terrain. I was primarily looking for a balance of low weight, modularity, and proven reliability.

The axe arrived neatly packaged, and my first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The carbon shaft felt incredibly light, yet solid. The head, with its aggressive pick, looked ready to tackle anything. Compared to my older, heavier steel-shafted axe, the Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems felt like a feather. I also considered the Petzl Sum’Tec and the Black Diamond Fuel, but the Grivel‘s carbon shaft and reputation for quality ultimately won me over.

I was immediately excited to put it to the test; the promise of a lighter, more versatile ice axe filled me with anticipation for upcoming climbs. It felt like a serious piece of kit, ready to handle demanding alpine terrain, a feeling that doesn’t always come with new gear.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems was on a local ice climbing crag with a variety of vertical and slightly overhanging sections. Conditions were typical for early season: cold, with brittle, chandeliered ice. The axe felt immediately comfortable in my hand, and the swing was surprisingly powerful despite its light weight.

The aggressive pick bit securely into the ice with minimal effort, and the G-bone shaft provided excellent feedback. A surprise was how well it performed on mixed rock and ice sections. There were no initial issues, and it performed as expected.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple ice climbing trips and a few alpine ascents, the Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems has proven to be remarkably durable. The carbon shaft shows no signs of cracking or delamination, even after being torqued and levered in cracks. The pick remains sharp, and the head has held up well to repeated pounding.

Cleaning is straightforward: a quick wipe down with a dry cloth after each use, and occasional lubrication of the head attachment bolt. Compared to my older axe, which required constant sharpening and rust prevention, the Grivel is significantly easier to maintain. The Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems significantly outperforms my older axe in terms of weight, swing feel, and overall versatility. It has become my go-to tool for technical ice and mixed climbing.

Breaking Down the Features of Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems

Specifications

The Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. Its interchangeable head allows for customization with different picks for varying ice conditions. The G-bone carbon shaft provides a lightweight yet strong platform, while the overall weight comes in around 1 lb 6 oz (620g).

The carbon shaft dampens vibrations effectively, and the modular design allows for easy replacement of worn components. These specifications translate to a more comfortable, efficient, and adaptable climbing experience. The length is typically available in 50cm, which is ideal for steeper ice and mixed routes.

Performance & Functionality

The Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems performs exceptionally well in its intended environment. The axe provides excellent penetration and secure placements on steep ice. Its balance is optimized for efficient swinging, reducing fatigue on long climbs.

A minor weakness is that the carbon shaft can be more prone to scratches than steel, but this is purely cosmetic. It exceeds my expectations in terms of weight savings without compromising performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems features a sleek and functional design. The G-bone shaft provides a comfortable and secure grip, while the overall balance promotes efficient swinging. The lightweight construction reduces fatigue and allows for precise placements.

There is a slight learning curve in becoming accustomed to the lighter weight of the carbon shaft compared to steel, but this is quickly overcome. The textured grip on the shaft is very well designed.

Durability & Maintenance

The Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems is built to withstand the rigors of alpine climbing. The carbon shaft is surprisingly robust, and the head is made from durable steel. With proper care, this axe should last for many seasons.

Maintenance involves regular cleaning and occasional tightening of the head attachment bolt. Sharpening of the pick is required, but that is common with any ice axe.

Accessories and Customization Options

The primary accessory is the ability to swap out the pick on the axe head. The Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems is compatible with various Grivel picks, allowing climbers to tailor the axe to specific ice conditions. Grivel also offers various add-on weights that can be attached to the head for a heavier swing.

While the Grivel head is primarily designed for Grivel picks, some users have reported success modifying other brands’ picks to fit. This increases versatility for users who prefer specific pick designs. The adjustability makes this a truly adaptable tool.

Pros and Cons of Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems?

The Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems is perfect for experienced alpinists, ice climbers, and mountaineers seeking a lightweight, high-performance tool for technical routes. Climbers who prioritize weight savings and versatility will find this axe to be an invaluable asset. It is especially well-suited for those tackling steep ice and mixed terrain where every ounce counts.

Beginners or those primarily using ice axes for general mountaineering may find the price and specialized features unnecessary. A more basic, steel-shafted axe may be a better starting point.

A must-have accessory would be a variety of Grivel picks to suit different ice conditions, as well as a good ice axe leash to prevent loss on steep terrain. Adding a hammer or adze, depending on the intended use, may also be beneficial.

Conclusion on Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems

The Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems is an exceptional ice axe that delivers on its promise of lightweight performance and versatility. The carbon fiber shaft and interchangeable head provide a significant advantage in demanding alpine environments. While the price is higher than traditional axes, the weight savings and enhanced performance justify the investment for serious climbers.

I would absolutely recommend the Grivel North Machine Carbon Vario Blade Systems to any experienced climber seeking a high-performance ice axe for technical alpinism and ice climbing. It has become an essential part of my climbing kit, and I am confident it will perform reliably for many seasons to come. Upgrade your climbing arsenal; you won’t regret it.