The Mammut Probe 320 Speed Lock is one of those tools you hope you never need but want absolute confidence in when you do. At 320 centimeters, it is on the longer side, and that extra reach gives real reassurance in deeper snowpacks. As a guide, I have carried plenty of probes over the years, and this one stands out for how quickly it deploys and how solid it feels once locked.
It is not the lightest probe you can buy, and it takes up more space in your pack than a shorter 240 or 270. But that is the tradeoff. If you ski or ride in places where the snow stacks deep, the 320 makes a lot of sense.
Here’s my full review after a couple months of heavy use.
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Full Review
The 320 Speed Lock grabbed a spot in our best avalanche probes roundup this season. It combines length, stiffness and one of the cleanest locking systems on the market. Here is how it performs in real use (by which I mean backcountry avalanche training and drills – fortunately no live rescues this time around!)
1. Deployment
The Speed Lock system is where the 320 shines. You pull the slide and the segments snap almost instantly into place, locking with authority. There’s very little fumbling – even with gloves on, I’ve felt the click cleanly. Because the locking action is so crisp, there’s confidence in the deployment, even under pressure.
I’ve used it mid-guide and in cold, tired hands, and it still doesn’t hesitate. The segments fit tightly, resisting unwanted movement under tension, so it rarely feels shaky. If you’re probing through firm snow or dense layers, that precision gives you real peace of mind.
2. Build Quality
Mammut builds their gear strong. The 320 Speed Lock is typically crafted from robust aluminum alloy; it’s thicker where it needs to be, but smartly engineered so it’s not overkill. Because of its length, you get extra reach for deeper snowpacks.
The depth markings are sharp and easy to read, even in slushy snow or low light. The segments have a solid feel. In the field, I’ve beaten mine over rocks, tossed it around in packs and it has handled real abuse without showing weakness.
3. Packability
Yes, 320 is longer, so it packs down bigger than say, a 270. But it still collapses to a manageable size. I’ve found it fits in probe sleeves or side pockets without too much drama. The weight is more noticeable when carried, especially on longer tours, but it’s not so heavy that it becomes a chore.
You’ll trade a bit of everyday lightness for deeper reach. If you consistently ski deep zones, that tradeoff is worth it. If your tours are short or sidecountry-heavy, you’ll feel the extra grams more.
4. Pros & Cons
Who The Mammut Speed Lock Probe Is For
The Mammut Probe 320 Speed Lock is tailored to riders and guides who see deep snow as the norm. If you’re operating in zones with large accumulations or where burials might go beyond what shorter probes can handle, this gives you the margin you want.
Who It's NOT For
It’s less ideal if your terrain is shallow or you prefer to carry ultra-light gear. If your backcountry style is more casual or mixed with resort laps, the extra length might feel like overkill in many cases. You’d probably be fine with the 270 or 300 BCA Stealth.
Alternative Options
The Stealth 300 is a great middle-ground between length, price and performance. Most riders will do equally well with it.
- 300cm Aluminum
- Weight: 11.6oz
- Collapsed Length = 17.0"
Final Thoughts
The Mammut 320 Speed Lock is a heavyweight in the probe game, in the best way. If you’re doing serious terrain and deep snow, having that extra reach is critical. Its deployment system is crisp, its build holds up to hard use, and it works when it matters.
But it’s not for everybody. If you mostly ride in lighter snow or place a premium on weight, it might feel excessive sometimes. If depth is a constant concern though, the 320 is a tool you’ll want in your kit.
