Trekking Poles

[bobby49]

I use some inexpensive Walmart aluminum trekking poles. As you say, the latches tend to loosen. However, on mine, if I get them good and tight when initially purchased, then they are good for years. Yes, a Philips head screw needs a good tool. At home I use a serious Klein screwdriver with a big rubber handle. However, for the trail I want something lightweight and compact. I found somebody's loose Swiss Army knife blade, and it fits the screw head, so I carry it with me. The screw never seems to need extra tightening so far.

[mschnaidt]

I bought the Black Diamond aluminum flip locks, women's, with rubber grips. Not the lightest but sturdy. Only problem is that the locks tent to slip if not adjusted often. I probably am not tightening them enough at home at the beginning of a trip. I also find that when the pole is submerged in a creek crossing, they will slip, but if I then dry off the sections they hold. I am now using a trekking pole supported tent so I have to adjust each morning and evening.

Does anyone know of a light weight Philips screw tip. It would be nice to have such tool with me. I was thinking of something like a tip welded to a wing-nut. Or is there already a special tool one can buy specifically for this purpose. I do not carry any multi-tool with me (never will because they are too heavy).

I carry a Leatherman Squirt PS4. It's 2 oz (on my scale) and has a screwdriver that works with Phillips screws. It's not a true 4 sided phillips but has 2 sides and works pretty well. I love having the scissors, knife and pliers.

https://www.rei.com/product/813346/leat ... multi-tool

Leatherman also makes the Micra at 1.75 oz that includes the Phillips screwdriver.

https://www.rei.com/product/684351/leat ... -multitool

[mschnaidt]

I bought the Black Diamond aluminum flip locks, women's, with rubber grips. Not the lightest but sturdy. Only problem is that the locks tent to slip if not adjusted often. I probably am not tightening them enough at home at the beginning of a trip. I also find that when the pole is submerged in a creek crossing, they will slip, but if I then dry off the sections they hold. I am now using a trekking pole supported tent so I have to adjust each morning and evening.

Does anyone know of a light weight Philips screw tip. It would be nice to have such tool with me. I was thinking of something like a tip welded to a wing-nut. Or is there already a special tool one can buy specifically for this purpose. I do not carry any multi-tool with me (never will because they are too heavy).

I carry a Leatherman Squirt PS4. It's 2 oz (on my scale) and has a screwdriver that works with Phillips screws. It's not a true 4 sided phillips but has 2 sides and works pretty well. I love having the scissors, knife and pliers.

https://www.rei.com/product/813346/leat ... multi-tool

Leatherman also makes the Micra at 1.75 oz that includes the Phillips screwdriver.

https://www.rei.com/product/684351/leat ... -multitool

This could work and is lighter.

https://www.amazon.com/Portable-Keychai ... =8-11&th=1

[Cycleboy]

I carry the Leatherman Skeletool CX. A bit heavy at 5oz, but has the right stuff to fix most things that are likely to need it. I’m willing to add that few ounces to keep a trip enjoyable and safe.