Which ones are the best and where to buy

[stattonmw]

Finally bought my own sled this year! (2009 D8 155)I have a beacon but am shopping around for a shovel saw and probe. I have so far looked at bca, hmk, and a couple other brands that they carry at rei. My question is which ones do you guys recomend through experience using them and price. Also who has the best deals?

 

[joeoim]

stattonmw,

I use the old Life Link extendable handle, D handle (can use with mittens), and aluminum blade. I like metal coated blades, as apposed to plastic. Even the aluminum gets beat up.

I will check my probe. I think it is a HMK. What ever you get, get a rugged probe, and longer is better than shorter.

I like folding saws with the shark teeth. They can be found fro $20 or less.

More important is to learn as much about snow science, and forcasting as you can. There are some clubs and state snowmobile organizations that offer avy courses for reasonable fees.

Some of the members here sell good equipment that has proven itself, for less than you can expect to pay elsewhere.

Joe

 

[SnowBigDeal]

I would recommend a probe with a minimum length of 240cm. The BCA Profile 240cm quickie probe is great as well as the Black Diamond SuperTour 265cm.

The BCA Companion Shovel is a great shovel, large blade, extension handle.

Check out all the shovels and probes on our website: www.snowbigdeal.com

PM me with any specific questions.

Cade

 

[columbus]

Definately get an aluminium blade shovel, lexan and plastic are useless in hard debris especially when its really cold. Plastic shovels are really only made for climbers looking to save grams. Also, get a book called Snow Sense, I saw in your post you were looking at REI, they will have it for sure. Its filled with good information and is a great resource especially when combined with a good avy course.

 

[Surly1]

AS far as where to buy, I would recommend SnowBigDeal (www.snowbigdeal.com). These guys ahve good prices, and alot of great stuff.

For the probe, the longer the better (240cm is recommened). So not pick out the "ultra Light" versions. These have thinner side walls and tend to bend and break much easier. If your looking to save weight go with the carbon fiber probe ( I see they now offer it in a 260cm this year, looks like I need to upgrade myself).

Shovel, def get a metal blade. The plastic ones break in avy debris (or hard pack). Also the larger the blade you can get away with the better off you are. In a rescue situation it is all about moving snow as fast as possible. I also prefer an extended handle, so you can get more leverage and aren't quite as hunched over.