Charlet Moser Quark, $225
Summary: The hyper-curved Quark shaft offers a great grip and big clearance, and was the favorite at Quebec’s raucous Festiglace ice climbing festival. The steeply drooped pick penetrates and hooks like a dream, and the Quark swings well once you develop a good wrist flick. On the downside, the detachable leash takes some practice to become proficient with, using the hammerhead requires choking up on the tool, and the wrist leash could cinch down better. Despite these minor shortcomings, this is one sweet tool.
Pros: Ergonomic grip. Pick penetrates and hooks well.
Cons: Leash system requires practice.
Overall grade: A

Charlet Moser/Petzl: (801) 926-1500, www.petzl.com

The test results
Black Diamond Viper
C.A.M.P. Tiburon
Cassin Mirage
Charlet Moser Quark
DMM Xeno
Grivel Tech Wing
Hugh Banner Spitfire
Omega Alpha Ti
Stubai Scorpio
Trango Madame Hook

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