I picked up the Akila LT this season with both an adze and hammer attachment to replace my Petzl Gullys and to expand my quiver beyond the standard Akila (the longer model).
The first things I noticed was the lightened overall weight and the improved swing weight of the LT compared to the regular Akila. The Akila pick has always been one of the most aggressive and confidence-inspiring in its class, but the LT design removes the metal spike at the bottom of the shaft. This shifts the center of mass slightly higher, which allows for a more momentous swing. The result is a lighter tool that feels more capable on water ice and on mixed terrain. Compared to my Petzl Gully, the Akila LT climbs more aggressively and I feel more comfortable bringing it on serious objectives where I maybe would have brought a full technical axe in the past.
So far the Akila LT has proven to be extremely versatile. It has performed exceptionally well on steep snow climbing, leading ice up to WI3, and I’ve even used it on a few sections of mixed terrain and light dry tooling, where it felt far more capable than most tools in the lightweight alpine category.
Blue Ice Akila Axe
In recent years, ski mountaineers have been looking for that sweet-spot ice axe - one that is light and compact enough to bring along without much of a weight penalty but is able to confidently set a pick when things get spicy. The Akila is Blue Ice’s worthy entry into the, let’s call it, “swingable ultralight” category means it carries like a butterfly but swings like a bee. A Chromoly steel pick inspires confidence with sufficient heft and durability when you’re climbing a short ice step or bulletproof snow. The lightweight anodized aluminum shaft is curved to properly swing but still useful for self-arresting. Again, best of both worlds. A stainless steel spike keeps balance on the steeps and the adjustable, removable pommel allows you to dial in the perfect grip. The Akila is sure to become a lightweight go-to for skiers who don’t want to be weighed down when eyeing up big lines with technical approaches.
- Aircraft-grade anodized, sandblasted aluminum shaft is curved enough to party, but straight enough to self-arrest.
- Stainless steel spike provides sturdy support and eliminates concerns of snow clogging.
- Adjustable, removable, tool-free pommel enables on-the-go versatility.
- Steel head and pick are durable enough for technical sections.
- Compact for easy carry, either in or out of your pack.
- Conforms to the CE / EN 13089 type 1 ice axe certification.
- Sold individually in hammer or adze options.
| Specifications | |
| Length(s) cm | 49 |
|
Weight |
300g [Adze] 300g [Hammer] |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
|
|
Chromoly steel head, aircraft aluminum shaft |
| Skimo Co Says | |
| Usage | Ski mountaineering, high alpine skiing |
| Notes | Made in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc |
| Bottom Line | Supreme combo of lightweight technicality |
| Compare to other Ice Axes | |
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Questions & Reviews
Comment on this review:
7/19/2021
Will the pommel/hand rest slide past the bent section of the shaft all the way to the upper rivet?
7/20/2021
Tim, thanks for the question. The pommel will slide and lock up and past the rivet.
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