This is the first axe I have actually owned. I bought it as a precaution for a trip to Snowdonia in January, and it came in very handy. It wasn't the cheapest axe in the store, but it was very good value for an occasional user. The guys in store had lots of good advice on which axes would be suitable, and helped to ensure I got the sizing right. Nice and light, complete with adjustable leash, it was very comfortable and easy to use. A couple of practice falls to refresh my memory, and I was off. It was great for balance going up and down, and on a particularly steep strtetch of the descent, came in very handy for my undignified bum sliding, giving me confidence and security using it as a brake. Hole in the head is handy for use as an emergency belay point if you really need to. If you are thinking of buying an axe, I'de definitely recommend this one, but do it in store - I found the staff to be really helpful, knowledgable and experienced, which all helped.