just starting out.

Recently I have purchased a pair of lowa boots and petzl lynx crampons. I plan to do some waterfall climbing this winter for sure but also want to get into some mountaineering.

So the big question of the day for me is.... is the edelrid raid a decent mountaineering axe ? I can score it for a pretty cheap price right now about $70 shipped. I think I prefer the curved handle over a completely straight one but what do I know. Thats why I'm here.

Any help would be appreciated

Thanks
Scott

Modern mountaineering and ice axes are completely different for a variety of reasons. You'll probably need one mountaineering axe with a straight shaft for self arresting on snow and glacier fields, AND a set of two more aggressive, curved ice axes designed for vertical ice.

But to actually address your question, I've also been looking at that axe. I think the curve on the handle is probably more ergonomic than a completely straight one. This one by petzl is also pretty similar but has a grip attachment in case you need to hang on it (probably wouldn't be pratical for actual ice climbing though):

trekkinn.com/outdoor-mounta…

Yeah I understand going to need 2 sets one shaped like grivel x monster and not with more of a straight shaft. I was kinda hoping the riot has a straight enough shaft to be used for mountaineering. And I have noticed some "mountaineering" axes have a slight curve now as well. I was also looking at the bd raven but I like the curved shaft a little better and was just hoping it would work ok. Let me know your thoughts.

that elderid will do great.

Thank you so much sir !