What is the difference between a B and T rating on BD picks?
A. In general, T-rated tools are usually defined as “intended for steep ice.” Think Viper, Cobra, Fusion, Reactor—tools for climbing waterfalls and mixed climbing. B-rated are usually defined as “Ice tools other than technical ice tools.” These are more along the lines of piolets for mountaineering, etc. Think Raven, Raven with Grip, Raven Pro, Raven Ultra, Venom, etc. It gets slightly more confusing because, over time, the ratings and requirements have slightly shifted, so now it is possible, and common, to buy an ice tool that has a T-rated shaft, but a B-rated pick as well as a tool with a B-rated shaft and a T-rated pick.
