There are some pieces of ski touring kit that I can’t think about, optimize, and tinker with enough–think backpacks, skis, boots, technical gear, etc. To balance this and keep myself from going totally crazy, I try not to overthink some pieces and commit to one or a couple of options. This category includes shovels and…
On Avalanche Probes
Avalanche Probes, an indispensable safety tool: The good, the bad, and the ugly.
Responses
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The fact that the incremental Mammut markings wear off (surprisingly quickly, like within a season of regular use) led me to switch to a BCA probe. I’m *pretty* sure the Stealth 300 (and the new 330) are the only 3-meter+ probes on the market w/ fully laser etched markings!
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I like the BCA: easy and secure deployment, and, the final section stows inside the second to last, so it’s “1 segment smaller” in your pack than a traditional design. Many packs get very tight in the Avy gear pocket, so I find this helps me cram it all in.
As far your question about the BCA carbon: it’s 70 grams lighter, and 3 cm less tall when collapsed. Whether that is worth an extra $25 USD is a separate question, but the $/g is better than many other lighter options.
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