Grivel Air Tech EVO Ice Axe with G-Slider Instruction Manual

Introduction

The Grivel Air Tech EVO is a classic mountaineering ice axe designed for glacier travel, alpine routes, ski touring, and traditional mountaineering. This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use, maintenance, and storage of your Grivel Air Tech EVO ice axe. Please read it thoroughly before use.

Safety Information

WARNING: Mountaineering and ice climbing are inherently dangerous activities that can result in serious injury or death. Proper training, experience, and judgment are essential. This ice axe is a tool for experienced mountaineers. Do not use this product without adequate instruction and understanding of its proper application.

• Always inspect your ice axe for damage before and after each use.
• Ensure all components are securely fastened.
• Wear appropriate protective gear, including a helmet, gloves, and eye protection.
• Understand the limitations of the equipment and your own abilities.
• Never modify the ice axe.
• Keep sharp points and edges covered when not in use to prevent injury.

Product Overview and Components

The Grivel Air Tech EVO ice axe consists of several key components designed for optimal performance in alpine environments.

Figure 1: Grivel Air Tech EVO Ice Axe. This image shows the complete ice axe, highlighting its hot-forged steel head, G-bone aluminum shaft, and the G-Slider system.

• Head: Hot-forged, one-piece steel head for durability and secure penetration. Includes the pick, adze, and hammer (depending on configuration).
• Pick: Designed for secure placements in ice and firm snow.
• Adze: Used for chopping steps and clearing snow.
• Shaft: Lightweight G-bone aluminum shaft, providing structural resistance and reducing weight.
• G-Slider: An integrated adjustable system on the shaft for controlled hand positioning and retention.
• Spike: The sharp point at the base of the shaft for stability and penetration in snow.
• Rubber Grip: Integrated at the lower shaft for enhanced control.

Setup and Preparation

Before heading out, ensure your ice axe is properly prepared for use.

1. Initial Inspection:

   Carefully inspect the entire ice axe for any signs of damage, cracks, bends, or excessive wear on the head, shaft, or spike. Ensure all components are tight and secure.

2. G-Slider Adjustment:

   The G-Slider allows for adjustable hand positioning. To adjust, loosen the locking mechanism (if applicable), slide the G-Slider to your desired position on the shaft for optimal grip and balance, then securely tighten the locking mechanism. Ensure it does not slide freely during use.

3. Leash Attachment (if applicable):

   If your model includes a leash, attach it securely to the designated point on the ice axe head or shaft. Ensure the leash is properly adjusted to your wrist for security without restricting movement.

Operating Instructions

The Grivel Air Tech EVO is a versatile tool. Its application varies depending on the terrain and activity.

Basic Use for Glacier Travel and Snow Slopes:

• Walking Cane: On gentle slopes, hold the ice axe by the head with the pick facing backward. Use the spike for balance and probing snow depth.
• Self-Arrest: This is a critical skill. If you slip, immediately flip the axe into the self-arrest position:
  1. Roll onto your stomach, head uphill.
  2. Bury the pick into the snow near your shoulder.
  3. Apply pressure to the adze/head with one hand and the shaft with the other, driving the spike into the snow with your body weight.
  4. Keep your feet up to avoid catching them.

  Practice self-arrest in a controlled environment before attempting it in real-world situations.

• Chopping Steps: Use the adze to create secure footholds on firm snow or ice.

Steeper Terrain and Moderate Ice:

• Piolet-Traction: For steeper sections, swing the pick into the ice or firm snow for purchase. Use the G-Slider for a secure grip on the shaft.
• Piolet-Canne (Dagger Position): Plunge the shaft vertically into the snow for support, holding the head.

Always ensure a secure placement before committing your weight. Proper technique and training are paramount for safe use.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe performance of your ice axe.

• Cleaning: After each use, clean the ice axe with fresh water to remove dirt, snow, and ice. Dry thoroughly to prevent rust, especially on the steel head.
• Inspection: Regularly check for:
  • Cracks, dents, or bends in the shaft.
  • Excessive wear or dullness on the pick, adze, and spike.
  • Loose components or fasteners.
  • Damage to the G-Slider mechanism or rubber grip.
• Sharpening: The pick and spike should be kept sharp for optimal performance. Use a fine-toothed file or sharpening stone. Sharpen only the original angles; do not alter the profile of the pick or spike. Be careful not to overheat the metal.
• Storage: Store the ice axe in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and corrosive substances. Use tip protectors for the pick and spike to prevent injury and damage during storage and transport.

Troubleshooting

Most issues with an ice axe relate to wear and tear or improper technique.

• Issue: Pick or spike not penetrating effectively.

  Solution: Inspect for dullness or damage. Sharpen if dull. Ensure proper technique is being used for placement.

• Issue: G-Slider slipping.

  Solution: Ensure the locking mechanism is fully engaged and tightened. If it continues to slip, inspect the mechanism for wear or damage. Do not use if the G-Slider cannot be secured.

• Issue: Rust on steel components.

  Solution: Clean and dry the axe thoroughly after each use. Light rust can be removed with a fine abrasive pad or steel wool, then apply a thin layer of rust-preventative oil.

• Issue: Visible damage (cracks, bends).

  Solution: Immediately cease use. Damaged equipment can fail catastrophically. Contact Grivel customer support or a qualified gear repair specialist for assessment. Do not attempt to repair structural damage yourself.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Grivel products are manufactured to high standards. For specific warranty information, please refer to the official Grivel website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

For technical support, product inquiries, or to report a defect, please visit the Grivel Store on Amazon or the official Grivel website.