Backcountry Access Companion System Shovel/Probe

The BCA Companion System is comprised of a remarkably lightweight shovel (either extendable or fixed) and a compact probe. The shovel blade is made from high-grade aluminum and the shaft has an oval shape to increase its prying strength and to fit ergonomically in a gloved hand. The probe, 6' (1.8m) extendable, fits inside the shovel shaft for efficient storage and packing. The whole thing weighs a paltry 1lb 14oz with fixed shovel and 2lbs 4oz with extendable.

On Sale
~~$89.90~~ $62.93

BCA Shovel W/Extension
I bought the telescopic model and couldn't be more pleased. A durable shovel and the fact that the probe is always handy are great features. REM7600 in Idaho

The Best
What can I say, the BCA Companion system rocks! Integration with the excellent probe and the option of bringing along the extension handle are great features. Once again, BCA offers the highest quality product at a fair price.

Backcountry Access Companion System Shovel/Probe
Excellent shovel and probe. The lightest and strongest on the market.

Perfect all-in-one
I struggle to think of anything bad to say about this shovel/probe combo. It's small, light, and robust. I love the fact that the probe is stored within the shaft: it protects the probe, and is one less critical item to forget when packing for the backcountry. Some hard-core ski patrollers or gnarly old-school mountain men might complain that the probe is too short. But frankly, if it's small and light, I'm more likely to leave it in my pack, and there's no better argument than that. (I make the same case for LED headlamps, that some old crusties claim are insufficiently bright.)

Nice Shovel
The BCA Companion shovel is a great shovel for those who venture off-piste, but are not backcountry warriors. The shovel is nice and light but way too small for serious digging. The probe in the handle is a nice feature, but would take ridiculously too long in an emergency to take out. Overall a great shovel for those who only venture away from the front side once-in-a-while.

Training Tips

One of the most mentally toughening things you can do as a runner who trains daily is to add a morning run into your routine. This means you are doing two runs a day. The morning run is simply more of a mental challenge then anything else.

Have two pairs of running shoes, especially if you live in a wet climate. Consider replacing your shoes no later than 500 miles into the life of the shoes.

Proper hydration for a run includes drinking 30 - 45 minutes before you start and about a cup every 10 - 15 minutes while running.

One of the best ways to win a running race is to win it in your mind first. Visualize yourself running and winning that important race. The more often you do this, you will start to "feel" the race. Your heart will get pumping and your body will feel the effort required to get the job done.