In reply to UKC Gear:
In my opinion, the main reasons to opt for a quark over other similar ice tools is:
(1) The quark is very stable when using the upper grip on insecure holds. This is mainly due to the fact that the stock ICE pick is less open than other "ice" picks and the secondary grip rest can be placed lower down on the shaft than other tools.
(2) The flip-up pommel makes plunging the shaft in hard or crusty snow more efficient, and it doesn't require using tools nor is there a risk of dropping and loosing a removable pommel. Unlike the UKC reviewer, I have not had any issues with the new pommel.
(3) The tapered pick weight accessories (need to bought separately) are great for climbing wide cracks and rime ice.
(4) The index finger trigger is a nice feature for more precise swings, when climbing thin & delicate ice.
The main benefits of the Quark (relative to the Nomic) are:
(1) The clip in point at the spike is significantly stronger. If you might take a tether fall or want to incorporate your ice axes into your belay anchor, Quark is likely a better option (especially if you wrap your handle).
(2) Hammering in pitons. Hammering in pitons using a Quark is significantly worse than using a separate specialized hammer, but still a lot better than using a Nomic.
(3) Climbing long, steep, and exposed snow on big mountain routes.
For those that don't want the trigger, but want to keep the upper pommel, follow these instructions:
(1) Wrap the shaft with some tape, where you want to have the upper pommel
(2) Slide the orange trigger off of the bolt.
(3) Put the pommel over the taped shaft and then tighten the bolt.
Post edited at 16:49