WALKING WITH YOUR AXE

Carry the axe with the pick facing backwards, your index finger pointing down the shaft, thumb under the adze (opposite end of the axe head to the pick), and the rest of the hand gripping the back of the pick. This allows you to swiftly bring it into position for an arrest if you fall.

When walking on a slope, keep it in your uphill hand, passing between hands as you turn if zigzagging.

When not in use, store your axe carefully to avoid injuring others. There are two main options for this:

Either... stash it securely in the side compression straps of your rucksack with the pick pointing backwards.

Or... tuck the axe shaft between your back and your pack, with the adze hooking over a shoulder strap to keep it in easy reach.