Recall Notifications

RECALL NOTICE FOR SMC KOBAH ICE AXE

(August 5, 2019)
SMC (Seattle Manufacturing Corporation) has identified a potential safety issue with the Kobah Mountaineering Ice Axe.SMC has decided to voluntarily recall these axes in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Safety Product Commission. Kobah Ice Axes with MLN 10864 (MSRP $99) are subject to this notice. Not applicable to Kobah Pro and Kobah Speed Axes.It has come to our attention that our procedure for proof testing the final assemblies may have inadvertently reduced the strength of a limited number of axes.  As a result, the spike and/or head of the axe may separate from the handle at a load below SMC’s minimum testing threshold and could result in a serious injury hazard. No accidents have been reported as a result of this issue, but in the interest of customer safety and product quality, SMC has decided to voluntarily issue a recall. If you purchased an axe, please download and fill out the "Kobah Warranty Claim Form" below and email: customerservice@smcgear.com. 

(UPDATE 01/01/2020)
SMC has introduced and implemented needed changes to the Kobah Ice Axe to resolve referenced issue. ALL AFFECTED KOBAH AXES HAVE BEEN RETURNED AND REPAIRED PER THIS NOTICE. An update to the axes was made to ensure that the issue of shaft separation from head/pick will not occur. This fix can be determined by recognizing a rivet in the shaft at the base and head (see images below). 

Retailers, please click here for Kobah Recall Poster PDF

Click here for Kobah Warranty Customer Claim Form PDF