Most ice axes are made from metal—and for good reason. But last month, the geniuses at Furnace Industries launched their new wooden tool that’s as strong as it is pretty.

What to look for in an ice axe. Firstly, material. Avoid wooden shafts as they’re not strong enough for enthusiastic use, although you will get certain retro kudos as you leave the car park. Don’t go ...

“First time I seen that axe, it’s good,” says Gilbert Koodee, a timber wood cutter in N’dilo, N.W.T., after seeing the axe make quick work of a piece of timber in a video.

The axe, which is made from iron and wood and stands nearly 3ft tall, was bought by American investor and climbing enthusiast Warren B Kanders in April after being auctioned by Christie's, in ...

The axe has a long, wooden handle which they used in that era.” Eric Jones believes it IS from the Swiss trip of 57 years ago. Mr Jones, of Tremadog, said: “I would say that the axe is genuine.