Our Take

Without a doubt, the Raven Pro Ice Axe is the best ax for climbing Rainier's standard routes. Period. Lightweight, durable, and long enough to provide ample support, the Raven Pro has been in our rental program for decades.

Now lighter and featuring a slightly angled and ergonomically improved trapezoidal shaft for better grip and more aggressive climbing. The updated pick, adze, and spike geometry allow for more secure placements, whether you're kicking steps up Aconcagua or winding through crevasse fields in the Alps, while the investment-cast, polished stainless-steel head provides dependable durability.