Avalanche probe designed for fast deployment and packable storage in mountain kits. Offers reassurance for ski tourers, guides and mountaineers working in unstable snow. Is the TerraWest Core 240 Avalanche Probe robust and quick enough for real-world rescue use?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Probe Reach: 240 cm assembled length for thorough probing of burial depths
- • Best for: Ski tourers, backcountry guides and mountaineers carrying rescue kit
- • Not ideal for: Minimalist ultralight users who prefer sub-200 g microprobes
Six-segment aluminium construction collapses to 40 cm and weighs 299 g. Quick-lock assembly and a large tip aid penetration and stability during probing.
Rapid Deployment – Thanks to Quick-Lock Mechanism
Quick-lock design secures probe segments together with a fast, repeatable action, reducing the number of assembly steps under stress. Tensioning uses a coated steel cord to keep segments aligned and rigid.
Faster set-up when seconds matter during a rescue, helping search teams get to probing without fumbling components.
Reliable Penetration – With Aluminium 7075 T6 and Large Tip
Pole sections are made from Aluminium 7075 T6, chosen for high stiffness-to-weight ratio, while a larger probe tip helps cut through compacted snow and ice. The coated steel cord limits stretch and holds tension.
Stiff poles and a robust tip increase confidence when probing hard snow layers, improving the chance of a positive strike.
Packable and Light – Thanks to Six-Segment Design and 40 cm Collapsed Length
Six segments collapse to a compact 40 cm length and overall weight is 299 g, making the probe easy to stow in a backpack. A quick-release carry bag is included for secure storage.
Fits inside ski or airbag backpacks without occupying much space, leaving room for other essential kit while remaining accessible.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for TerraWest Core 240 Avalanche Probe
- Quick-lock mechanism – Deploys probe in seconds and reduces assembly errors under stress
- Aluminium 7075 T6 construction – High stiffness and low weight for confident penetration in hard snow conditions
- Coated steel tensioning cord – Maintains rigidity with minimal stretch for consistent probing performance
- Compact 40 cm collapsed length – Packs neatly into backpacks, freeing space for other essential kit
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Avalanche rescue probe
- Length (assembled): 240 cm
- Collapsed Length: 40 cm
- Weight: 299 g
- Diameter: 12.4 mm
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the probe easy to carry in a ski pack?
A: Yes. Six segments collapse to a 40 cm length and the quick-release carry bag allows secure stowage inside ski or airbag backpacks.
Q: What materials give the probe strength and stability?
A: Pole sections use Aluminium 7075 T6 for a strong stiffness-to-weight ratio, and the coated steel cord limits stretch to keep the probe rigid.
Q: Can the probe penetrate compacted snow and ice?
A: A large probe tip has been added specifically to help cut through avalanche snow slabs and ice, assisting penetration during probing.
🏆 Our Verdict
Suitable for ski tourers, mountaineers and guide teams who need a pack-friendly probe for backcountry rescue. Quick-lock assembly, aircraft-grade aluminium and a large tip provide dependable penetration and fast probing. While cost will vary, durable construction and practical packability suggest good long-term value.
