[at-l] Re: Hiking Poles - which and why?

[ellen at clinic.net (Bob C)]

My favorite wooden pole weighs about 9.5 ounces, complete with a rubber crutch tip and a Komperbell cork grip and strap, which is fastened with a 1/4/20 screw epoxied into the top, which makes the pole double as a monopod for my camera. The wood was found where it had been left by a trail-clearing crew in Maine. I think the wood is alder, though I had peeled most of the bark before I had attempted to make an identification. Others I've made have been definitely alder or red maple. Oak is definitely too heavy. I haven't tried other woods. Look for a maximum diameter of 3/4 to 1" or less.

One advantage of a natural wooden pole for short people is that you can make the length fit a tarp shelter and carve a grip and attach a strap to match your height. The natural changes in the wood, make numerous grips for use while climbing or descending step slopes. 

Most commercial wooden poles I've seen are too heavy. They are designed to impress tourists more than hikers. If you forego the monopod/hand grip, a strong wooden pole is very easy to make, very strong and pretty light weight. Wood is strong. I use mine mostly for balance and one is enough except when crossing streams. I usually can find something on the shore left by other hikers. If not I can whittle a new pole in a minute or two.

Weary