I switched to a CAMP Corsa Ice Axe for alpine adventures a few years ago, it was a mistake. On a spring ascent in RMNP I had to self arrest with the Corsa and it was not pretty. Which is why I picked up the Black Diamond Swift Ice Axe. Saving weight doesn’t matter if you are dead.
The Swift Ice Axe features T Rated handled and pick. What is T Rated? It means it is technical rated so it can withstand more force than your basic mountaineering axe.
The Swift has a much stronger pick and adze combo than is found on something like the Corsa or most other mountaineering axes.
One feature that works so well you wonder how you lived without it is the adjustable pommel. Raise it or lower it based on how you are using it or how bulky your winter gloves are.
The stainless spike gets through the nastiest hard packed snow and ice. Unlike the lightweight CAMP Corsa, it does not get packed with snow.
If you need an ice axe for steeper days but not a full on ice climbing axe, look no further.
Black Diamond says: https://www.blackdiamondequipment.com/en_US/product/swift-ice-axe/
With an adjustable pommel and a T rating, the Black Diamond Swift takes mountaineering piolets into the 21st century. One-piece hot forged stainless steel head construction, ergonomic shaft and technical profile for performance in technical snow sections and the FlickLock™ pommel adds adjustability for varying terrain.
T-rated shaft
One-piece, hot forged SS head
Adjustable pommel
Lightweight, modern and technical design
50, 57, 64 cm