Blade pitons are the smallest category of piton and used to be the only way to protect thin cracks – typically cracks 3-4mm / 1/8th inch wide , but there are now also the Moses Tomahawks and a variety of Pecker type hooks. 

 

The Climbing Technology Blade Pitons are a hard steel piton and all 3 sizes are rated for progression only.

 

Blades still have a place on the rack especially for more permanent placements and are essential for horizontal placements. They are also good for fragile placements where the increased surface area aids security. 

 

Moses Tomahawks and (to a lesser extent) Peckers offer a good and often better option, in thin vertical cracks as the hook/bite into the placement under load. On temporary placements it is also easier to clean Tomahawks and Peckers whilst blades are susceptible to damage when repeatedly placed.