UKC

Old topic on Hydras is closed, so I started this one.

One question - can anyone compare handle size of BD Hydra vs DMM Switch?

Or Nomic in medium and large setting?

I mean - the largest possible setup, I've got really big hands. 

Sz. 

I'd say the hydra has the biggest handle out of those , especially so if you use both spacers .it comes with one fitted plus an additional one. The nomic handle has the adjustability in the bottom and gives essentially more space for bigger hands, gloves etc but the adjustability of the hydra is in the actual length of the handle so with both spacers it's longer, almost to the point of it feeling like a comp tool handle. 

I have a set of Hydra's. I can't give you a solid answer compared to the Switch but could check against a pair of Cortex tonight (likely a similar handle size) and Nomic's at the weekend.

One thing I would say is that having placed none/one/two spacers on the Hydra is that you should be covered from small to large hands. I usually take a medium or small glove if I want it more tight fitting and will most likely be using the one spacer on the Hydra.

Can get back to you later for comparisons

I’d be interested too. Some people complain that the Switch handle is too big but it’s perfect for my hands in BD Punishers.

Having compared the Cortex and Hydra (with one spacer), both are very similar.
If the Switch is similar to the Cortex then this may help - although this might not be the case.

Either way, with the Hydra you will be able to size up or down as you need.

Have you had chance to use the Hydra's yet? How do they compare with other tools?

When I held the hydras compared to switch, mimic, BD current vipers I couldn’t help feeling the handle was a bit thin ie. Not as supportive with a smaller bump for your index finger to control things. 
v interested if people climbing on them feel the handle gives less control. I love th feel of switch and nomics. I’ve got medium hands I’d say. 

Down to personal preference I'd say, I have hydra's,  also had ergonomics,  nomic   , and for me the handle on the hydra is much better,  I don't like the bump in the petzl handle, the swing , balance and handle of the hydra for me are the best around. Can't comment on switches but briefly used cortex and didn't like the handle on that either.  Really is just personal preference though

It's a question that has a lengthy answer and that will largely come down to personal preference. 
There will be a review of the Hydra's later this season on UKC.
First impressions are they are a great tool that will appeal to many - although that might not answer your question at all.

Is there a DMM Cortex review coming too?

Sure is

Thanks, I'll look forward to reading that.

Fantastic. I appreciate it is tough reviewing winter gear with the current fickle nature of Scottish conditions but there is very little out their on the Cortex and what is out there on the Hydra seems to be more publicity than review so some (relatively) objective review are much needed.

You're absolutely right - it's really tough to produce in-depth reviews of winter climbing gear, in a timely fashion. But we're working on it...  

I climbed with someone with a pair of Cortex the other week and perhaps sillily, didn't ask to have a go with them! I have a heard from a "well-placed source", who has climbed with them, that they aren't flawless though and there was some minor issue - but I can't remember exactly what that was!  

We await the UKC verdict with bated breath... (as you can guess, I didn't get tapped to review them, not that I'm jealous or anything Although more seriously, I'm still really enjoying my Edelrids https://www.ukclimbing.com/gear/snow+ice/ice_axes/edelrids_new_rage_ice_axe... They got me up IV,6 a couple of weeks ago in as good order as I'm ever going to get up tech 6 in!)

Although up in the Great White(-ish) North, at least you don't feel the need to go to the dubious delights of  Masson Lees Quarry to try out ice tools!