First Impressions of Grivel Monte Bianco Axe
The Grivel Monte Bianco Axe is a classic piece of mountaineering equipment, harking back to a time when wood and steel were the cornerstones of alpine adventure. This axe, manufactured by Grivel, a company with a long and storied history in mountaineering gear, attempts to blend that heritage with modern manufacturing techniques. It boasts a chromolly steel blade and a wooden shaft, a combination that promises both tradition and functionality. What immediately caught my eye was its simplicity; a return to the roots of alpinism in a world of increasingly complex gear.
I needed a reliable, CE certified axe for general mountaineering purposes, something that could handle glacier travel, self-arrest scenarios, and the occasional steep snow climb. The Grivel Monte Bianco Axe seemed to offer the right balance of classic design and modern safety standards.
Upon unboxing, the axe feels solid and well-made. The wooden shaft has a comfortable, natural feel in hand, and the steel head is cleanly forged. Its weight, at 715 grams (25.5 oz), feels appropriate for its intended use – not too heavy to be cumbersome, but substantial enough to inspire confidence.
Compared to more aggressively curved and technically oriented axes like the Petzl Summit Evo or the Black Diamond Raven Pro, the Grivel Monte Bianco Axe feels distinctly traditional. I chose the Monte Bianco because I wanted an axe that prioritized simplicity and reliability over cutting-edge performance. I wasn’t looking for a tool for pure ice climbing; rather, a dependable companion for general mountaineering.
My initial impression is one of cautious optimism. The Grivel Monte Bianco Axe certainly looks the part of a classic mountaineering tool. I am eager to see how it performs in real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Grivel Monte Bianco Axe to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Grivel Monte Bianco Axe on a week-long trip in the North Cascades, involving glacier travel and moderate snow climbs. The conditions ranged from sunny days on the glacier to wet and slushy snow higher up.
The axe performed admirably in the variable conditions. Its straight shaft proved comfortable for walking and self-arresting, and the steel blade bit securely into the snow. Using the axe for basic snow anchors was straightforward, and the wooden shaft provided a surprisingly good grip even when wet.
There were no immediate issues after the first use, but I did notice that the varnish on the wooden shaft began to show minor scratches after contacting rocks. No surprise there, but something I would be watching.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Grivel Monte Bianco Axe has proven to be a reliable and capable tool. The chromolly steel blade shows no signs of chipping or significant wear, and the wooden shaft remains solid and structurally sound.
The varnish on the shaft has continued to wear in high-contact areas. That’s a purely cosmetic issue and can be addressed with a simple reapplication. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the head with oil.
Compared to my experience with aluminum-shafted axes, the wooden shaft of the Monte Bianco offers a more comfortable and shock-absorbent grip, especially during prolonged use. It doesn’t outperform more technical axes on steep ice, but for general mountaineering, it’s more than adequate.
Breaking Down the Features of Grivel Monte Bianco Axe
Specifications
- Weight: 715 grams (25.5 oz). This weight is a good balance between portability and solid feel in hand for self-arrest and general use.
- Blade Material: Chromolly Steel. Chromolly steel offers a good combination of strength and durability, ensuring the blade can withstand repeated impacts without chipping or bending.
- Shaft Material: Wooden. The wooden shaft provides a comfortable and shock-absorbent grip.
- Certification: CE Certified B. CE Certified B indicates that the axe meets European safety standards for basic mountaineering axes.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the axe’s performance and suitability for its intended use. The chromolly steel blade ensures durability and reliable ice penetration, while the wooden shaft provides a comfortable and shock-absorbent grip. The CE certification provides assurance that the axe has been tested and meets established safety standards.
Performance & Functionality
The Grivel Monte Bianco Axe performs its job effectively for general mountaineering purposes. It excels at self-arresting, glacier travel, and moderate snow climbs.
Its strengths lie in its simplicity, reliability, and comfortable grip. A weakness is its lack of aggressive curvature, which makes it less ideal for steep ice climbing. It meets expectations for a classic mountaineering axe.
Design & Ergonomics
The Grivel Monte Bianco Axe features a classic design with a straight wooden shaft and a traditionally shaped steel head. The materials used are high-quality, and the axe feels well-balanced and comfortable in hand.
The design is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. Its simplicity makes it easy to use for both experienced and novice mountaineers.
Durability & Maintenance
The Grivel Monte Bianco Axe is built to last. The chromolly steel blade and wooden shaft are durable and resistant to wear and tear.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The wooden shaft may require occasional varnishing to protect it from the elements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Grivel Monte Bianco Axe comes with a basic leash. There are not many customization options available for this classic design.
It is compatible with standard axe protectors and adze covers from other brands. You can replace the leash with a higher-end wrist loop.
Pros and Cons of Grivel Monte Bianco Axe
Pros
- Classic Design: Timeless aesthetics and a comfortable feel in hand.
- Durable Materials: Chromolly steel blade and wooden shaft ensure longevity.
- CE Certified: Meets European safety standards for basic mountaineering axes.
- Simple and Reliable: Easy to use and maintain.
- Comfortable Grip: The wooden shaft offers excellent shock absorption.
Cons
- Varnish on the wooden shaft wears easily
- Not ideal for steep ice climbing due to straight shaft.
Who Should Buy Grivel Monte Bianco Axe?
The Grivel Monte Bianco Axe is perfect for: general mountaineers, hikers venturing onto glaciers, and anyone seeking a reliable and classic-looking ice axe for moderate terrain. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate traditional equipment and prefer simplicity over cutting-edge features.
Who should skip this product? Ice climbers tackling steep or technical routes should opt for a more aggressively curved axe with specialized features.
Must-have accessories: A quality axe protector to protect the blade and nearby gear, and a durable leash.
Conclusion on Grivel Monte Bianco Axe
The Grivel Monte Bianco Axe is a well-made and reliable tool that successfully blends classic design with modern safety standards. Its durable construction, comfortable grip, and CE certification make it a solid choice for general mountaineering purposes.
At $211.50, the price is justified given the quality of materials and construction. It is an investment in a tool that should last for many years with proper care.
I would personally recommend the Grivel Monte Bianco Axe to anyone looking for a dependable and aesthetically pleasing axe for moderate mountaineering adventures. It’s a tool that evokes a sense of history and tradition while providing the functionality needed for safe and enjoyable experiences in the mountains. So, embrace the spirit of classic alpinism and add the Grivel Monte Bianco Axe to your gear arsenal – you won’t be disappointed.