Avalanche probe for backcountry safety, offering fast and dependable depth readings in rescue scenarios. Confidence for mountaineers and ski tourers carrying compact safety kit on long routes. Is the Salewa Lightning 240 Probe the right choice for serious winter adventurers?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Deployment Speed: Pull grips and a six-section light alloy shaft enable quick assembly and probing.
- • Best for: Backcountry skiers, mountaineers and ski tourers who need compact, reliable rescue gear
- • Not ideal for: Users requiring combined shovel or transceiver functions rather than a standalone probe
Six-section light alloy construction folds compact for easy carriage. Last segment is coloured red for destination recognition and warning during probing.
Fast deployment - thanks to pull-grip assembly
Pull grips on the shaft let each of the six sections be extended quickly and locked into place, supported by a secure locking mechanism noted by users. Light alloy segments slide together smoothly, reducing snagging when assembling under stress.
Rapid assembly shortens probe time during an emergency, allowing rescuers to start depth checks immediately. Fewer fumbling movements help maintain control in high-pressure situations.
Easy to carry on long tours - with extra-compact folded size
Six-section design reduces packed length without adding bulk, and the light alloy construction keeps the overall weight low. Folding compactly allows insertion into pack sleeves or dedicated probe pockets.
Compact packing makes the probe simple to stow on ski-touring and mountaineering routes, so the probe is more likely to be carried consistently. Minimal pack intrusion encourages regular use.
Clear depth readings - with colour-coded, graduated sections
Graduated sections combined with a red final segment give visual cues for depth and destination recognition under pressure. Colour coding helps teams identify the probe tip and measure penetration quickly.
Colour contrast and clear graduations speed up depth measurement and reduce uncertainty during digs. Teams gain more accurate, repeatable readings in low-light or snowy conditions.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for Salewa Lightning 240 Probe
- Secure locking mechanism - prevents collapse during probing, improving reliability in rescues
- Graduated markings - allow precise depth measurement for informed excavation decisions
- Extra-compact folded length - fits pack sleeves and saves space on long ascents
- Light alloy segments - keep carry weight low for extended tours and ascents
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Sports, Avalanche probe
- Brand: Salewa
- Model: Lightning 240 Probe
- Product ID: B00OUZFKWE
- Material: Light alloy
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How quickly can the probe be deployed?
A: Pull grips allow speedy assembling of the six sections, and user feedback highlights quick deployment in emergency situations.
Q: Are the depth markings easy to read?
A: Graduated sections and a colour-coded final segment aid clear depth reading and fast destination recognition during probing.
Q: Will the probe stay rigid during use?
A: A secure locking mechanism is reported by users to ensure reliable use and reduce the risk of collapse while probing.
🏆 Our Verdict
The Salewa Lightning 240 Probe is well suited to backcountry skiers, mountaineers and rescue-minded tourers who prioritise compactness and dependable probing. Extra-compact folding, light-alloy construction and colour-coded sections make depth measurement quicker and more reliable. The durable design and secure locking suggest good long-term value for those who carry avalanche safety kit regularly.
