When do you replace picks?

I'm almost to the second tooth on my Nomics. How far do you go before you replace your picks? Anyone ever attempted to thin down the picks to get more life out of them?

What I do - put a set of new picks on. If they climb/stick better then it's time to retire the worn picks. If you can't tell the difference, put the old ones on and keep using them.

There's a fine line between getting more life outta your picks and the tool blowing outta the ice. Be careful!

I file my picks until I lose that first tooth. After that, I can't replicate the angles necessary to get a like new pick tip, so I buy new ones. For me, that's maybe every season and a half. I do about 50/50 pure ice and mixed.

You may be a whiz with a Dremel or a flat file, and may get more life out of them. I can't, and for me, good picks are absolutely necessary. Just like good front points on your crampons. You will easily lose half a number grade in your leading ability because of dull picks, screws, or front points.

ChapelPondGirl wrote:I file my picks until I lose that first tooth... You may be a whiz with a Dremel

Jason Todd wrote: Probably way to far for some picks. Definitely changing tool geometry by then. Don't use a Dremel or other grinder on your picks.

Using a round file to remove additional teeth can get you an additional 1/2 or full season out your picks. It can help you keep the right pick profile. I haven't found the taper to be so extreme that going back another 1/4" makes the tip too thick. Especially if it's an ice pick and not a T rated mixed pick.

I guess, just be more patient. Use a good vise and a good selection of round and flat files and you can keep the picks looking and working good. I picked up some cheap needle files from Harbor Freight that are great for keeping crampons and tool points nice and sharp, while allowing me to work in small spaces between teeth, etc.