C.A.M.P Neve £75
+ Fair price, solid performance, good adze
- Heaviest axe on test
The Neve from Italian brand C.A.M.P (which stands for Costruzione Articoli Montagna Premana’ – manufacturing of mountain tools in Premana) is a reliable ice axe for hillwalking, entry-level mountaineering and glacier travel, with surprisingly good all-round performance considering the excellent price.
The axe head is made from a single piece of forged chromoly steel with an ergonomic shape designed to deliver secure grip and comfort, while the relatively aggressive pick – which features serrated teeth and a positive downward curve – has been engineered for “solid anchoring in hard snow and a high level of control during selfarrest”, as C.A.M.P put it.
The adze is shaped and sized for “optimal chopping performance” and the steel spike at the base is sharp enough to plunge into ice and snow cleanly. Both the head and spike have holes for use with a carabiner, and C.A.M.P’s adjustable touring leash – a simple sliding wrist leash which does its job fine – is also provided without additional cost.
The weight of 524g for the 65cm version is the heaviest on test, which may polarise opinion – some will prefer a lighter version that’s easier to carry, while others may find reassurance in the added stability, security and performance a heftier piolet can offer.
■ Lengths 50cm, 57cm, 65cm, 73cm
■ Weight 524g (65cm, including wrist leash)
■ Strength rating 1/ B-rated
■ Wrist leash included? Yes
Verdict
A classic hillwalking ice axe with very respectable allround performance – but it’s heavier than other products.
Features ★★★★ Carrying comfort ★★★★ Lightness ★★★ Performance ★★★★ Value for money ★★★★★