Ortovox Carbon 240 Superlight snow probe finder
Best ultralight probe for backcountry skiers prioritizing speed and packability.
The Ortovox Carbon 240 Superlight is a superlight avalanche probe crafted entirely from carbon. It's designed for simplicity and speed, featuring a Quick-Lock tensioning system for easy opening and closing. The probe's segments are compact, fitting neatly into your backpack's safety compartment. With markings every 10 cm, you can accurately gauge depth, and the distinct colored end segments provide a clear indication when you're nearing a buried subject. This probe is an essential piece of safety equipment for anyone venturing into avalanche-prone terrain.
$79.90
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
51
/ 73
#51 in Avalanche Probes
Price vs Category Average
-62%
Below average
Brand
Ortovox
/ Ortovox
Who it's for
- Fast-paced ski tourers and racers prioritizing minimal pack weight
- Rescuers needing immediate, reliable deployment in high-stress emergencies
- Backcountry travelers requiring precise depth readings for efficient victim extraction
Who should skip it
- Users operating in rocky terrain where durability is paramount
- Budget-conscious skiers seeking value over ultralight performance
- Mountaineers probing through extremely dense or icy avalanche debris
Performance breakdown
Weight efficiency
Carbon construction makes this nearly weightless in your pack.
Deployment speed
The Quick-Lock system snaps into place instantly when seconds count.
Structural rigidity
Stiff carbon shafts provide excellent feedback through dense snowpack.
Packability
Compact segments stow easily into standard avalanche safety compartments.
Depth readability
Clear 10 cm markings ensure precise depth assessment during rescue.
Proximity signaling
High-contrast colored tips provide crucial visual cues near the subject.
Key Specs
Brand
Ortovox
Color
Black/Orange
Weight
185 g
Material
Carbon
Number of Sections
7
Know before you buy
Carbon is significantly lighter than aluminum, which is a major advantage for backcountry skiers and splitboarders looking to minimize pack weight. While carbon is stiffer, it is important to note that it can be more brittle than aluminum if subjected to extreme bending forces.
Yes, 240 cm is the standard length recommended for most recreational backcountry terrain. It provides enough depth to probe for a buried partner in typical avalanche debris without adding unnecessary weight or bulk to your pack.
The Quick-Lock system is designed specifically for alpine environments, allowing you to tension the probe instantly even while wearing gloves. It is reliable and intuitive, ensuring you don't waste precious seconds during a rescue.
Yes, the 10 cm markings are clear and high-contrast. Additionally, the colored end segments provide a distinct visual cue when you are close to a buried subject, which is critical for maintaining precision during the final stages of a probe strike.
Yes, the segments are designed to be compact and collapsible, making it easy to stow inside the dedicated safety gear compartment of most modern touring backpacks.
Still have a question?
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