an ice axe for mountaineering with a head that is detachable from the axe &# 39 ; s handle . the handle is i - beam shaped in cross - section and joined with the head in a machined , interlocking joint with at least one threaded fastening securing the joint . the axe &# 39 ; s head and handle are interchangable to allow increased versatility and usefulness , and the handle &# 39 ; s i - beam construction facilitates the handle being driven into snow or ice , while increasing the axe &# 39 ; s resistance to applied torsional forces when driven into ice or snow .