On Ice / Snow
I’ve found that the Corsa Nanotech excels on spring and summer snow conditions that are hard and steep enough to require a self-arrest tool. I’ve used this axe while bootpacking up a 45-degree summer snow couloir, for glacier travel during an approach to an alpine climb, and during a glacier travel / mixed scramble route that required drytooling.
This lightweight axe lightens my load while hiking, but can still penetrate fairly hard snow with either a swing or a stab. The reduced weight also means I’m more likely to throw it in my pack even if I’m not sure I’ll need the tool. I’ll continue to carry this axe into the mountains for everything but my sustained technical climbing trips.
Bottom Line
The Corsa Nanotech is a versatile axe designed for intermediate and advanced mountaineers, or simply for anyone who understands the benefits and limits of a lightweight aluminum axe.
It excels on a summer snowpack when access requires a long approach. I think it can also serve as an emergency “just-in-case” axe—since it only weighs 249 grams, I’m more likely to bring it along on a trip even if I’m not sure I’ll use it.
How does it compare to a bd whipet?
Hi Rob,
Sorry, but I haven’t used a BD Whippet, so I can’t compare them for you.
I carry mine on Spring ski traverses. It’s light enough to bring along for those “just in case” situations, and it’s a bomber tent stake.