Dark Machine w/Ice Vario
Description
Ultimate lightweight technical ice axe featuring a G-Bone carbon composite shaft and full carbon handle.
Dark Machine is the ultimate lightweight technical ice axe built for ice and mixed terrain.
VARIO system enables interchangeable blades and rear accessories for precise configuration.
G-Bone carbon composite shaft and full carbon handle reduce weight and increase stiffness.
Construction positions the centre of gravity higher, optimising swing arc for secure placements.
Handle supports controlled grip transitions on steep terrain.
Maximum strength with controlled performance.
No compromise.
Retail price
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Weight (g / oz) Weight (g / oz)In grams and ounces, the weight, as stated by the manufacturer/brand. The weight is the packaged weight. If there are differences in weight (due to optional accessories) we'll note them here. | 507 g / 17.90 oz 49 cm: 507 g / 17.9 oz |
| Length (cm) | 49 cm |
| Head Details | No adze or hammer (pair: Dark Machine w/Total Ice Vario
Dark Machine w/Katana Ice Vario
) 2 Screw adjustment |
| Ice Rating | Pick: T / Type 2 Shaft: T / Type 2 |
| Picks | Included with the tool: Ice Vario Other Picks Available: Total Ice Vario Katana Ice Vario Razor Ice Vario Total Dry Vario |
Pommel & GripPommel & GripUpper PommelFixed: An upper pommel that is fixed in place (it cannot move up/down the shaft nor can it be taken off). Adjustable: An upper pommel that can move up and down the shaft. Removable & Adjustable: An upper pommel that is completely removable and also adjustable. Removeable: An upper pommel that is either on or off (it cannot move up/down the shaft). None: If there is no upper pommel that comes standard (there may or may not be options to buy separately). Lower PommelFixed: A lower pommel that is fixed in place (the angle cannot be changed nor can it be taken off). Adjustable: A lower pommel that can change angle or location on the tool. Removable: When the lower pommel can be removed but not adjusted. None: If there is no lower pommel that comes standard (there may or may not be options to buy separately). | Upper Pommel: Fixed Lower Pommel: Fixed Grip Size: 1 size fits all (not adjustable) |
| Materials | Pick: Steel Head: Vario System Aluminium Head Shaft: G-bone carbon composite Grip: Carbon |
CertificationCertificationsThe main climbing gear certifications are CE and UIAA--and normally the UIAA creates the rules that the CE body also supports. When possible, we try to list all the certifications the product carries. To sell a climbing product in Europe, the device must be CE certified. There are no official requirements to sell climbing gear in the US. The UIAA certification is a voluntary process. Learn MoreRock and Ice Certifications Guide |
CE, EN, UIAA |
No reviews yet.
This is a brilliant tool, which climbs ice as well as any axe I've used. The carbon shaft is light, stiff and warm. However it's unashamedly specialist. I'd be reluctant to use an expensive carbon fibre axe for mixed climbing in Scotland, as a standard aluminium tool would do the job as well, and better withstand the rough usage. And at £343.95 per axe, they're not exactly a budget option. For your average UK winter climber the benefits may not justify the price tag, but if you really need their combination of performance and lightness, then the Dark Machine may well be an investment worth making.
As soon as I picked up the Grivel Dark Machine, the exceptionally high center of mass and minimal total weight caused some concern. Usually, the high balance point is a good thing as it adds power to the swing. But I had never swung an axe with such an exaggerated balance point. Since I use hammers on big ice missions, I packed a pair of the Hammer Varios. These would add 2.4 ounces to the back of the head. Yes, it would push the balance point upward. But I reasoned that the added weight would provide a more familiar feeling.
At the end of the day the Grivel Dark Machine is a tool for the focused specialist. It's well suited to steep terrain, ice that's dead-vertical or just beyond, and objectives that are long enough or remote enough to merit the weight savings of a carbon tool. In those situations, they shine. But if your winter tick list involves complex mountaineering, snow climbs, or moderate ice, a more generalist tool will likely be a better choice.
