REVIEW: DMM Raptor Ice Axe

At £125 the DMM Raptor is not a budget option, but its price is roughly on a par with similar models from other well regarded brands. Since this is an axe that's built to last, you're going to get years of service for your money. Its relatively high weight may be a little off-putting on paper, but in use it reflects its general sturdiness, and the T-rating that makes it suitable for use in belays. A refined design makes this a superb all-rounder, with plenty of technical juice in the tank for classic mountaineering, yet without being overkill for hillwalking on less steep terrain. If you were only going to buy one axe for everything from winter Munros, through Scottish grade Is and IIs, to Alpine normal routes, then I can't see anyone regretting a Raptor. While I'll always have a soft spot for the original, the much improved current version looks set to be my new favourite axe for years to come.