This should probably be considered a product preview not a product review because we've never actually used the Snobunje avalanche probe in an emergency nor do we ever hope to use it.
But we carry it, just in case.
The one-half inch diameter avalanche probe from Snobunje (yes, the same company that came up with that clever Rattler) is made of tempered aluminum and reaches 8 feet when fully extended. The probe comes in a nylon tote bag along with 10 marking flags that also fit in the bag.
The probe assembles with a pull and lock latch, which makes fully extending the probe an easy task.
An avalanche probe should be just one of the tools you carry to be prepared for an avalanche. It would be fairly useless to just carry an avalanche probe if you don't have a beacon and shovel. You need all three to be able to help search in case of an avalanche.
Highmarks
The probe does assemble easily, just as Snobunje claims. We've assembled the probe a few times and played/practiced with it in the snow but never in a real avalanche. The probe is very lightweight and compact and, when in its carrying tote, easily fits in our backpack.
Tumbles
We've not experienced any issues with Snobunje's probe during our practice sessions.
How To Get Ahold Of A Snobunje Avalanche Probe
Contact Snobunje (877) 250-2015 or www.snobunje.com. The avalanche probe retails for $54.95.