Raven Pro

 

Raven Pro
Page Type Gear Review
Object Title Raven Pro
Manufacturer Black Diamond
Page By Martin Cash
Page Type Jun 26, 2003 / Jan 17, 2007
Object ID 751
Hits 12361
Vote
The Raven Pro Ice Axe is the lightest, full-service piolet available, period. It has a super clean and simple design for the high-end user who refuses to sacrifice performance for less weight. The sleek and ergonomic head provides a sure grip and all day comfort—this also makes for a fast, smooth hand rotation when going into self-arrest. Boot-axe belays are a snap too. The classically curved adze blasts ice, chops steps, and clears snow quickly and easily. Not just for the climber, the Raven Pro is a ski/snowboard-mountaineer’s dream as well. At 11 ounces, you may think you forgot to bring it with you. Durable 7075-T6 Aluminum shaft, 17-4 investment cast stainless steel head and spike.

Bottom Line: If you have an axe to grind when it comes to weight, the Raven Pro is for you—light ‘n’ fast.

Images

Reviews


Viewing: 21-32 of 32
12

JonW - Dec 4, 2007 3:37 pm - Voted 5/5

Nice and Light
A great axe. Nice and light.

Props - Dec 8, 2007 1:53 pm - Voted 5/5

Very good
This is a great all-around axe and I'm quite satisfied with mine. It proved it's worth on my first trip with it and also left a little scar on my shin. (Get a cover - that adze is sharp) In my mind it's between this one and the standard Raven which is a little heavier but offers a little more utility with a slightly larger head. Pick your poison.

AltitudeSickness - Jan 3, 2008 6:54 pm - Voted 5/5

Another winner from BD
I needed a lighter axe, Black Diamond fit the need perfectly with this axe. Even though it is light I have found it to be durable and strong enough to self arrest with and trek with. The extra $$ is well worth it.

jdmorris - Jan 8, 2008 3:49 am - Voted 5/5

Long term test result
I've owned this axe and used it religiously for 4 years, now. Even despite some mixed rock and ice I've dragged it on, it's still sharp. I always worried that it might come apart after hard use and lots of drops but it's still 100% and frankly looks too nice for a well used piece of gear! Otherwise, everything has been said before - it's still feather light compared to the competition, and best of all, the leash attachment and molded hand grip makes the comfort of using this axe in a league of it's own.

JD

davebobk47 - May 22, 2008 3:40 pm - Voted 5/5

Nice
Nice axe, I was surprised at how much lighter than the Raven it was. Would definitely recommend this one.

Alpinist - Sep 9, 2008 11:23 am - Voted 5/5

Great ax
I upgraded from the standard BD Raven becasue I wanted a longer ax and I wanted to reduce weight. I used the Raven Pro on Shasta and Denali and I'm very happy with it. It feels comfortable and solid and it performed well for me on both trips.

Casey Bates - Nov 10, 2009 11:21 am - Voted 5/5

Highly recommended
I love this axe. I have been using mine for four years now and have recommended it to my friends. Despite all of the pounding and bashing against rocks, it is still in great condition. It is so light that I never think twice about bringing it along. If I am not mistaken, the new axes are anodized as opposed to powder coated which is a nice because chipping and scratching is not as apparent.

fzte - Dec 21, 2009 1:37 pm - Voted 5/5

Nice Axe!
Cost quite a bit compared to some other offerings but it's super lightweight and durable. It's also very shiny (always a must) and looks impressive in the sunlight.

RokIzGud - Mar 22, 2010 1:06 am - Voted 5/5

Great Piece
I swear by this axe. It light and all around awesome!

Rick Huff - Apr 14, 2010 5:51 pm - Hasn't voted

Great Piolet
For snow slogs I have found no better axe. It is really light, comfortable in the hand, and arrests really well. If I'm doing anything more technical...give me my Venoms!

AlexRts - Dec 4, 2012 12:52 am - Hasn't voted

Classic
Good for self arrest.

Onager - Feb 4, 2013 9:07 pm - Voted 5/5

Great axe for the price, durable
Lightweight, inexpensive and extremely durable, an excellent choice for lightweight mountaineering. Will perform a self-arrest as well as the more expensive brands with half the weight. A winner in my book. A good idea would be to use grip tape on the handle and either buy or create your own leash.

Viewing: 21-32 of 32
12