Black Diamond Equipment: Express Ice Screw

Without question, these are the easiest and fastest placing ice screws to ever sink their way into ice. This year we improved our renowned Express by redesigning the tooth geometry for easier starts, adding larger crank knobs that are easier to grab and augmenting the hanger with a second clip-in point for belay organization. Quick to bite and easy to crank in, the Express screw features a tapered tube where the teeth cut a hole just larger than the tube itself, for less friction and faster placements. The foldable speed-drive knob is color-coded for quick length identification and offers uninterrupted 360-degree motion. New stainless steel hangers are lighter than previous models, won't rust and reduce melt-out on sunny routes. The Express is built in five lengths to accommodate a variety of ice conditions. All sizes of screws are now CE-certified. Patented.

• Improved tooth geometry for easier starting
• Larger crank knobs offer faster placements and uninterrupted 360 degree motion
• Second clip-in point eases swapping positions at belays
• Stainless steel hangers don't rust and reduce melt-out on sunny routes
• Available in five lengths, color-coded for quick indexing
• CE-certified, patented