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At least two horizontal strokes with the pick will determine the slightly inward-sloping floor of the step, and should be followed by enough vertical strokes to clear room for at least the inside of the ball of the foot, and often for the entire foot and lower leg, if the slope is very steep. The adz levels the floor of the step. The wrist loop must be worn. If quarters are cramped, the shaft may be choked, but then the point can easily stab the climber. The ax should be held in both hands if possible, to spread the fatigue. One hand is usually all that is available. Fair handholds may be cut in the ice. They are apt to break out if cut with too pronounced an inward slope, and are hard to hold if not. |
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