B1 System

Shoveling might sound elementary but it’s the next frontier in decreasing avalanche rescue times. Shoveling takes the majority of time in an avalanche rescue. For information on how to organize and excavate efficiently, download this handout and watch this video.

What makes the bomber shovel so strong?

We have designed our shovels to be the lightest and the strongest shovels on the market. Bomber shovels are made of 6061 aluminum alloy which is the same material commonly used in the construction of airplanes and bike frames. The oval shaft design helps disperse the stress forced on the shaft when lifting or moving heavy material. Our oval shafts are strongest along the major axis, in this case being the vertical axis that takes on the majority of the load. The collar of the shovel blade is welded to the back of the blade for continued strength along this load-bearing axis. The blade is constructed for torsional stability through reliefs that enhance the rigidity of the blade. This construction allows our Bomber shovels to have an industry leading strength to weight ratio.

Which BCA packs are compatible with this shovel?

The Float 18, Float 30, Float 36, Throttle, Squall, Stash OB, Stash BC and Alp 40 packs are all compatible.

Am I compromising anything by getting a probe and shovel system?

The probe that comes with the B-1 System is two meters long and is the shortest BCA probe. This type of probe is designed for backcountry travel in areas with a shallow snowpack and for those that want minimal weight with ultra-packability. For this reason, the B-1 System probe is skinnier and shorter than a standard probe and is not recommended for those skiing in areas of deeper snow. It is also not recommended for use on probe lines during search-and-rescue operations.