Black Diamond Hot Forged Natural Ice Picks Review

What Happened When I Tried the Black Diamond Hot Forged Natural Ice Picks

My well-worn alpine ice tools have seen their fair share of vertical worlds, but lately, the defining points have been showing their age. After a particularly frustrating session where my picks felt like they were skating on the ice rather than biting, I knew it was time for an upgrade. I needed something that offered more consistent purchase, especially on those harder, more bulletproof ice formations common in late-season or colder climes. The Black Diamond Hot Forged Natural Ice Picks promised a solution, boasting a geometry specifically for pure ice and a construction focused on durability.

Upon receiving the pair, the initial impression was one of robust simplicity. They felt solid, with a satisfying heft that immediately suggested they could take a beating. Unlike some of the more aggressively curved or specialized picks designed for mixed climbing, these had a clean, focused look, hinting at their intended purpose. I’d briefly considered other brands known for their ice tools, but Black Diamond’s reputation for durable alpine gear swayed my decision. My first thought was a quiet sense of optimism – a feeling that these might just be the reliable companions my trusty tools needed.

Real-World Testing: Putting Black Diamond Hot Forged Natural Ice Picks to the Test

My testing ground for these picks was primarily on steep, north-facing ice couloirs and frozen waterfalls in the Canadian Rockies. I subjected them to a variety of ice conditions, from crisp, sun-affected ice to the dense, frigid stuff that feels more like glass. This included numerous multi-pitch ice climbs, where the reliability of every swing is paramount.

First Use Experience

My first outing with the new Black Diamond Hot Forged Natural Ice Picks was on a classic ice climb known for its challenging, often verglassed ice. The moment I swung the tool into the ice, I noticed a distinct difference. The picks bit with an authority that had been missing from my old ones. They plunged deep with less effort, and the updated low volume tip geometry felt exceptionally effective at penetrating and holding firm.

There was a slight learning curve, mostly in trusting the hold of the new pick shape, but it was more about confidence building than actual difficulty. The picks cleared ice well, preventing that frustrating tendency for ice to build up and clog the pick. Overall, the first use was a revelation, turning a potentially challenging day into one of confident ascents.

Extended Use & Reliability

Weeks of use, spanning multiple ice climbing trips and even a few simulated ice scenarios in the workshop for practice, have shown these picks to be incredibly reliable. They have endured repeated impacts, scrapes against rock when traversing icy gullies, and even the occasional accidental drop on frozen ground. Despite this, there are no visible signs of significant wear, deformation, or performance degradation.

Maintenance has been straightforward; a quick rinse with water after use and a light wipe down with a cloth are usually all that’s needed. I’ve found no reason to apply any special coatings or lubricants. Compared to some older generation picks I’ve used that developed burrs or weakened tips relatively quickly, these natural ice picks from Black Diamond feel built to last. They have certainly outperformed their predecessors in terms of longevity and consistent performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Black Diamond Hot Forged Natural Ice Picks

Specifications

The Black Diamond Hot Forged Natural Ice Picks are crafted from high-grade Steel, a testament to their intended use in demanding environments. Each pick weighs approximately 3.5 oz, a surprisingly light yet substantial feel that doesn’t overly fatigue the arms during long ascents. The hot-forged construction is a key feature, promising enhanced durability and resistance to fracturing or bending under stress.

The updated low volume tip geometry is specifically designed for optimal penetration on pure water ice. This design reduces resistance upon entry and improves the pick’s ability to hold securely, which is crucial for technical ice climbing. The picks are also designed to fit on all current interchangeable pick ice tools from Black Diamond, offering a straightforward upgrade path for existing tool owners. Finally, they are CEN-B certified, indicating they meet stringent European safety standards for climbing equipment.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of core function – ice penetration and holding power – these picks excel. The low volume tip geometry is a standout feature; it slices into ice with remarkable efficiency, requiring less force for a secure placement. This is particularly noticeable on hard, blue ice where other picks might skate or require a more aggressive swing. The pick’s shape also aids in self-cleaning, preventing ice build-up that can compromise hold and require extra effort to dislodge.

The primary strength of the Black Diamond Hot Forged Natural Ice Picks is their pure ice performance. They are uncompromised by designs intended for mixed climbing, focusing solely on what works best on frozen water. A minor potential weakness, for those venturing into more varied terrain, is their less aggressive secondary teeth compared to mixed climbing picks, which might offer slightly less purchase on sheer rock edges. However, for their intended purpose, they meet and exceed expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of these natural ice picks is one of focused utility. The steel construction feels incredibly robust, with a finish that resists scratching and chipping surprisingly well. The overall feel is one of quality craftsmanship, with no rough edges or imperfections.

Ergonomically, the picks integrate seamlessly with standard ice tool shafts. Their weight distribution feels balanced, contributing to a comfortable and controlled swing. The hot-forged process likely contributes to their solid feel and lack of perceived flex during hard impacts. There’s no complicated setup or adjustment needed; they are designed to be installed and used immediately, which is a significant advantage when gearing up for an expedition.

Durability & Maintenance

The hot-forged construction is the key to the exceptional durability of these picks. I’ve seen no signs of premature wear, even after extensive use on varied ice conditions. They are built to withstand the rigors of serious ice climbing, suggesting a long lifespan for the Black Diamond Hot Forged Natural Ice Picks.

Maintenance is blessedly simple, involving basic cleaning after each outing. Given their robust construction, I anticipate they will last for many seasons of hard use. The only potential concern for long-term durability might be the eventual dulling of the tip through extreme wear, but that’s a natural consequence of using any pick on ice and rock. Replacement is straightforward thanks to the interchangeable pick system.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Black Diamond Hot Forged Natural Ice Picks are designed as replacement or upgrade components for Black Diamond’s range of ice tools that feature an interchangeable pick system. They do not typically come with additional accessories beyond the picks themselves. Compatibility is a key feature, as they are stated to fit all current interchangeable pick ice tools from the manufacturer.

While there are no direct customization options for the picks themselves, their true customization comes from being part of a modular tool system. Users can swap them out for different pick types (e.g., mixed climbing picks) depending on the objective. This flexibility is a significant benefit for climbers who tackle varied terrain.

Pros and Cons of Black Diamond Hot Forged Natural Ice Picks

Who Should Buy Black Diamond Hot Forged Natural Ice Picks?

These picks are an absolute must-have for any serious ice climber who spends a significant amount of time on pure water ice. If your objectives frequently involve steep couloirs, frozen waterfalls, and conditions where ice quality is paramount, these are designed for you. They are ideal for climbers looking to maximize their security and efficiency on vertical ice.

Conversely, climbers who primarily focus on mixed climbing or require extreme versatility across rock and ice might find these too specialized. While they can handle some mixed terrain, dedicated mixed climbing picks would likely offer superior performance on rock. For those with older ice tools that lack an interchangeable pick system, these picks would require a tool upgrade. I would highly recommend pairing these with Black Diamond’s line of ice tools designed for this system.

Conclusion on Black Diamond Hot Forged Natural Ice Picks

The Black Diamond Hot Forged Natural Ice Picks are a testament to focused design and robust engineering. They deliver exactly what they promise: superior performance on pure ice. The hot-forged steel and carefully sculpted tip geometry combine to create a pick that bites hard, holds secure, and endures the abuse of serious alpine pursuits. While their specialization means they might not be the first choice for every type of climbing, for dedicated ice ascents, they are simply outstanding.

Considering their build quality, performance, and the increased confidence they inspire on challenging ice, the price of $64.95 feels justified for a pair. If you are an ice climber who values reliability and efficiency on frozen water, I would wholeheartedly recommend these picks. They are a significant upgrade that will undoubtedly enhance your climbing experience and safety on the ice.