Petzl have challenged the Ice Tool norm and re-engineered their 3 most popular tools (Quark, Nomic and Ergo – now the Ergonomic) to create tools that excel at their specific target uses. The Quark still remains as the most versatile tool for technical mountaineering and ice climbing.
All the new tools feature a few common features including a new hydro-formed shaft that is more comfortable and secure to hold in the dagger position and drives better when plunged, a new rubber grip for the handle and upper grip, as well as a smaller hammer that better protects the head of the axe.
The new Quark features a folding Griprest which folds in easily for planting the ice axe into snow and for allows for easy deployment when taking on steeper terrain. A neat little feature which just adds to the huge versatility of this tool. The Trigrest handrest is adjustable without the need for tools as per the previous version.
Another improvement is a new soft plastic insert between the shaft and the head. This plastic insert is specifically designed to expand and contract with varying temperatures and therefore reducing the effects of head wobble and makes the head-shaft connection stronger.
The Quark comes with the ICE pick for better penetration on ice terrain and is compatible with the MASSELOTTE weights to modify the balance if required. As with all 3 new axes, the Quark is also compatible with picks Pur’Ice, Dry, Pur’Dry and all head accessories. This modularity allows you to use your old picks and head accessories across tools for different types of terrain or conditions.