Arrest poles

I use a Condor occasionally. I like the knuckle guard and the pick retractability. I did modify the strap so it comes out on top of the pole (it just didn't feel right). Also, I made it into a flicklock attachment to the lower pole using an old flicklock mechanism and a quick slice of the upper shaft. I didn't like the twist-lock.

thanks to everyone who replied - good info & I really apreciate the feedback. I'm gonna stay on the lookout for a Condor or older whippet based on your comments. I like the ability to retract the pick as needed on a tour.

-Chris

Have you thought of using a light aluminum ice axe? Camp makes a good one.

Definitely use an axe at times when booting but haven't really mastered it while skiing (up or down).

I am looking at the arrest poles as the in-between time - when I definitely won't use an axe and would like a little more self arrest or self belay ability than with a regular pole. I like being able to retract the pick - example would be a more committing initial decent on a glacier - might leave the pick out. Then as the terrain mellows, retract the pick to avoid the 'self impale'.

I don't want to over think it but that's how I was thinking about using arrest poles.

Another vote for the Condor.

In my experience, there is no "in-between" time; you either need to self-arrest a fall or you don't.  If you don't, then why fuck around with an extremely sharp object?  If you do, then why fuck around with an extremely sharp object that probably won't do the job?

They're mainly for climbing up anyway...

I know we're all gearheads, but certain kinds of gear you really want to get right!

EDIT: That being said, I could probably find use for them if I owned them