Vintage Swiss Alpine Ice Axe - Military
Marked "GEBR. Andermattn Schweiz Saas Almagel" c. 1944 Serial number 1489
c. 1944, 20th century
Wood, Metal
34"l x 11.5"w x 2"h
© Vintage Winter

This is a very unique vintage ice axe.  It was made for the Swiss military in 1944.  While I have seen quite a few vintage Swiss military ice axes, this one is made from a very lightweight yet stout wood.  I believe it to be an Austrian Lindenwood typically reserved for antique Black Forest carvings.  The shaft is 9/10th's smaller in diameter than our c. 1939 Swiss Military ice axe in the museum collection and a full 1/4lb lighter.  It is in excellent condition and has been preserved with our natural oil and beeswax finish.  Whether you are looking to add to your collection or hang it on the wall you cannot go wrong choosing this old wooden ice axe.