More tool than weapon, the ice axe has a sharp metal head that is perpendicular to the shaft and has a spiked handle. It grants a +1 circumstance bonus on Climb checks in mountainous and/or icy terrain, even if you do not possess the Exotic Weapon Proficiency (ice axe) feat. If you do possess this feat, the bonus increases to a +4 circumstance bonus. An ice axe may be used as a martial weapon, but takes a -2 penalty on attack rolls in this case.