Gear Review
Black Diamond Trail Trekking Pole
BD Does it again -- FlickLock is excellent
By Eric Darsow
Ranked #153 - Trekking Poles
January 9, 2010
I purchased these after a cheap pair of screw-lock poles died a fast death. While I haven't systematically tested, I would never buy a pole with a screw lock mechanism. I've seen three die. But these are sturdy and the FlickLock mechanism can be tightened with a small screw so they will never slip as long as you have your Gerber on you. Field Serviceable in this respect.
In my opinion, having the foam grip extend under the actual hand grip is nice for going up hill when you need a bit more leverage. Typical of me, I was a little worried about not getting a model with a replaceable tip, but I've hiked at least 250 miles with these
suckers and the carbide tip has shown literally zero wear--the dimple is still as deep as when i bought it. I also haven't regretted not getting a shock version--these work fine. The screwing section for the replaceable baskets seems like it would begin to strip if I swapped baskets often--but who really swaps baskets anyway?
View Details: Black Diamond Trail Trekking Pole
Helpful Votes: 2 Yes
Tech Specs:
- Usable Range:
- 25 - 55 in
- Collapsed Length:
- 25 in
- Shaft:
- aluminum
- Grip:
- dual-density foam, foam extension
- Tip:
- Tech Tips (interchangeable carbide and rubber)
- Locking Mechanism:
- FlickLock
- Included Baskets:
- yes, low-profile, interchangeable, powder
- Weight:
- (pair) 1 lb 2 oz
- Recommended Use:
- hiking, backpacking
- Manufacturer Warranty:
- 1 year
Change me.
1 Comments Last Reply: January 29, 2011 By: Tim L.R.
By using rubber tip covers there would hardly be any deep ground penetration, in flat rocky areas slippage may be prevented. If the surface of the ground is frozen or rock hard, well use your own judgement, we all learn by our mistakes....
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes