Hiking poles: how beneficial do you find them on your hike in hunts?

[HarryToolips]

I'm guessing the main advantages to having them on long hike in hunts is your using your upper body a little more to get you up a mountain, and on descents im guessing they help with stability etc, especially when carrying your big game harvested on your pack? I have a gun holder on my pack, which obviously frees up my hands for poles, but I can't help but think that the disadvantage to that is you don't have your rifle ready quickly in a bear encounter, or if you surprise an animal you'd like to harvest?...what's everyone's experience with this?

Ive gotten along fine without them thus far, but was just thinking they may make things a little easier....

[RiverOtter]

Put it this way Harry, you do one trip with, you'll never want to go without. I only wish I'd have gotten on the program years ago; my knees would likely be in much better condition today.

[bighunter45]

They are beyond essential. Worth every penny.

[Sharpish]

Yeah way easier on the knees and ankles and safer too! One pole is what I usually use but two might be even better!

[northernbc]

never leave home with out them

[RiverOtter]

That store in Kelowna that starts with a capital "C" has carbon fiber cam-loc poles for a really good price.
They make good impromptu rifle rests and are awesome for creek crossings, because you can feel for holes/drop offs. Among the other obvious uses.

[horshur]

You just lose them...getting them back depends on how many meters elevation you just gained before noticing you no longer are using them.

[Grumpa Joe]

I used them on a goat hunt 2 seasons ago and cursed never having tried them before. Light-weight, great for balance, indispensable, IMO. I have 2 sets now with the shock reducing capabilities.

[RiverOtter]

You just lose them...getting them back depends on how many meters elevation you just gained before noticing you no longer are using them.

I've seen guys do that with rifles too....:lol:

[Rhyno]

I rock a Kifaru gun bearer.....hands free for the poles, gun readily accessible. When I am mountain hunting the hiking poles never leave my hands unless I am sitting down, mandatory IMO.

[CVMike]

I've seen some really cool tent systems that utilize your hiking poles instead of having separite tent poles. Good way to shave some weight off your setup.

[Dougielightning]

Elk hind quarter strapped to my back 7 km hike out super steep spots, never would've made it down or back without them. Damn riverotter lol. X2 on the Kifaru gun bear also river otters idea nice setup. Hiking poles mountain hunting ..... priceless

[jtred]

There sure save wear and tear on my knees and hips, I use two while packing in or out and only one(the other strapped to the pack) while hunting. With a little practise they make a great monopod for binoculars or rifle, or two with rope and a siltarp make a decent shelter if you're caught out on the mountain in a storm or too late to get back to camp. Used four and two siltarps to build a sauna to get clean on a pack trip one time.

[Ride Red]

All these years of hunting and never used poles, but did see where they would have been handy many times. Maybe this year I'll change my ways!?!?!

[Ride Red]

While were at it, any brand recommendations?

[TheProvider]

Been meaning to pick a pair up and will soon. Save your body!

[HarryToolips]

Well that's a unanimous decision, thanks folks!

[HarryToolips]

That store in Kelowna that starts with a capital "C" has carbon fiber cam-loc poles for a really good price.
They make good impromptu rifle rests and are awesome for creek crossings, because you can feel for holes/drop offs. Among the other obvious uses.
Lol you mean Cambodia tire right?

[HarryToolips]

All these years of hunting and never used poles, but did see where they would have been handy many times. Maybe this year I'll change my ways!?!?!
Lol I was the exact same way of thinkin...

[Rhyno]

While were at it, any brand recommendations?

Black Diamond are the only brand to last more than a season for me...I broke some cheap ones and some expensive Leki's. Really like the ones I have now, around $130 I think?

[goatdancer]

Lol you mean Cambodia tire right?

I think he meant the other C.

[huntcoop]

I think he meant the other C.

What brand and price do they sell at Co$+co, any ideas?

[mod7rem]

I've been using hiking poles for mountain trips since 2004 and would hate to be without them. They help in almost every situation with balance and stability. Its amazing how much energy you save in rough country going up, going down, side hilling, etc. The scariest thought for me is crossing creeks without them. In my opinion water crossings are the most dangerous situation during my mountain trips and I'd hate to do it without at least one pole. On one sheep trip, I was in the air in a float plane when I realized the poles were still in the back seat of my truck. Lots of sketchy crossings on that trip so my brother and I took time to cut a pole each for the heavy pack out with two sheep.


http://i859.photobucket.com/albums/ab155/mod7rem/00000000-0000-0000-0000-0000000006B1_zpsro5bwasq.jpg

[.264winmag]

I would rate hiking poles right up there with ammunition, when talking high country huntin...

[Stone Sheep Steve]

Essential for me.
My last pair of Komperdels lasted me an entire decade. Tips were broken off and they were
beat up pretty bad by the end. Finally snapped one last year and replaced them a pair of Black Diamonds from WSS.

Nice solid lock system. I like them so far.

[Seth]

Black Diamond are the only brand to last more than a season for me...I broke some cheap ones and some expensive Leki's. Really like the ones I have now, around $130 I think?

Do you use the folding or the Flicklock poles? I have my reservations about the folding but haven't heard any complaints either. Downside to the folding poles is lack of length adjustment.

[Red_Mist]

You gotta have them in backcountry and steep terrain. Save you knees so you can hunt into your older years. Currently using Kelty poles and they work great.

[srupp]

Good piece of kit to have on grizzly hunts also..big bear hide. .skull. .paws. can easily exceeded 150 pounds..stability. if you trip that pack could push drive ones face rapidly to the ground.riskng eyes . removing chicklets"...

Highly recomended"
Steven

[Brew]

One of the most essential pc's of equipment for sure. I laughed when I was told about them but purchased a set for a goat hunt and havnt looked back.

[Dougielightning]

Picked up two pairs of decent quality poles from the vv boutique last year for 20$ a pair. Must have been some better off than me couples last year set. Survived just fine. Surely don't have to break the bank and spend the change on better boots

[Stone Sheep Steve]

And add a tarp and you've got a cozy bivy set up.

https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13932726_324297457906809_8635358031833825874_n.jpg ?oh=55449a4bdec4cdbbc3f15e72df8bc530&oe=593D8F79

[HarryToolips]

^^^^^exaxtly Srupp...have my griz draw this spring so thinkin sooner the better..

[Blockcaver]

I second the Black Diamond aluminum 3 piece flip lock style poles. Rubber tips (quiet) are nice for hunting and big baskets can be screwed on for cross country skiing or snowshoeing. I don't like the small baskets mine came with for use on hunts as they hang up in the low willows. The longest poles work best for tent poles (Siltarp) and for cross country skiing.....145 cm for the BD. Essential gear in my book.

[Stone Sheep Steve]

^^^^^exaxtly...have my griz draw this spring so thinkin sooner the better..

For sure. Grizz live in wet country for the most part.

[albravo2]

I recommend poles with some shock absorption in them. I find they do a better job of taking the weight off your knees when going downhill. I put the butt of the pole in the palm of my hand when going downhill, the angle doesn't work well if you grip the poles like ski poles on steep hills.

Indispensable kit.

[RiverOtter]

What brand and price do they sell at Co$+co, any ideas?

Brand is Cascade Mountain Tech. Don't want to infringe on advertising rules, so I'll just say they're about 1/2 of where big name poles start, price wise.
A super good buy for anyone sitting on the fence, wondering if they're old enough for trekking poles yet... :p
They're 135cm and come with 2 baslet styles and 2 rubber end caps.

I upgraded to Komperdell "Ridge Hiker" poles last season, after I wore out my "starter" poles, because a few years ago I couldn't fathom spending $100 on a pair of sticks. Poles are right up there with good boots, in my opinion.
Black Diamond, Leki, Komperdell and Gabel seem to be the main players in the pole game, but there are definitely decent poles outside of those brands.

[takmaster]

I always have my Leki poles when hunting the high ground. Never leave on a trip without them.

[Xenomorph]

And add a tarp and you've got a cozy bivy set up.

https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13932726_324297457906809_8635358031833825874_n.jpg ?oh=55449a4bdec4cdbbc3f15e72df8bc530&oe=593D8F79


That looks awesome! What tarp? Paracord or something else for tiedowns?

[Ohwildwon]

Black Diamond Carbon Z...

The lighter the better...

Have to be careful banging them on the side of a rock, they can shatter...

[RiverOtter]

Elk hind quarter strapped to my back 7 km hike out super steep spots, never would've made it down or back without them. Damn riverotter lol. X2 on the Kifaru gun bear also river otters idea nice setup. Hiking poles mountain hunting ..... priceless

Hahaha, ya, there would have been a line up at the knee surgeons table after that pack out, sans poles.

[AgSilver]

Brand is Cascade Mountain Tech. Don't want to infringe on advertising rules, so I'll just say they're about 1/2 of where big name poles start, price wise.
A super good buy for anyone sitting on the fence, wondering if they're old enough for trekking poles yet... :p
They're 135cm and come with 2 baslet styles and 2 rubber end caps.

I upgraded to Komperdell "Ridge Hiker" poles last season, after I wore out my "starter" poles, because a few years ago I couldn't fathom spending $100 on a pair of sticks. Poles are right up there with good boots, in my opinion.
Black Diamond, Leki, Komperdell and Gabel seem to be the main players in the pole game, but there are definitely decent poles outside of those brands.

I have the cascades and they're great. Best price on a carbon pole I've found. Nice cork handles, too. I want to modify mine to put a monopod rest in the top of one. Have to figure that out but can't be that hard.

[Stone Sheep Steve]

That looks awesome! What tarp? Paracord or something else for tiedowns?

Thats a Siltarp II...8x10'.
I stole they guy lines off an old tent.

[decker9]

I always bashed hiking poles..... till I used them enough to get use to them, never head up a mountain without them now.

[northernbc]

If the weather is super crappy I peg all outside edges of tarp down (with some slack) then just use one pole in the centre to form a tipi

[Walksalot]

I used them prior to a knee operation and they are a big help, strongly recommended by my physiotherapist. Having said that, I have never used them while hunting because in the bush, at times, one is in close proximity to an animal and to loose the poles and reach for the rifle is a lot of movement. I do, however, carry them with me always fastened to the side of my pack. The handles are made of tan cork and that being the case I have fluorescent tape wrapped around them.

[GetLethal]

Put it this way Harry, you do one trip with, you'll never want to go without. I only wish I'd have gotten on the program years ago; my knees would likely be in much better condition today.
Yep, ive heard something like 40% reduction in knee impact when going downhill using the poles.

[HarryToolips]

And add a tarp and you've got a cozy bivy set up.

https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13932726_324297457906809_8635358031833825874_n.jpg ?oh=55449a4bdec4cdbbc3f15e72df8bc530&oe=593D8F79

that's wicked.........

[Five]

Sorry, I live near Kelowna, but I don't know of a gun store that starts with a "C". I would like to pick up a pair of poles, can you let me know the store you were referencing?

[SaintSix]

only cons for poles are walking in thick brush or long grass, so getting collapsible poles you can strap to your bag until out of those areas are ideal. I use the kifaru gun bearer so I always have my gun in reach at a moments notice. Few tips, going up steep hills, shorten them. going down lengthen them. figure out what material of handle you plan on using, you might need gloves for long excursions. check your pole tips for a sharp carbide. it grips the rocks better when not rounded off from long term use. Practice with them, at first youll always be staring at the ground looking where to place them after a while it becomes natural. They really do help endurance, by using more of your body parts ie your arms it spreads the load so you don't tire as fast. just my 2 cents

[calvin L]

Get a set and use them . You will never go back

[Lionhill]

I tried and like the Primos quick deploy tripod, and have used it on more than a few hikes as a walking stick. The three legs strap together at the bottom, and have a very adjustable height. I needed a tripod for photos while hunting and hiking, doubles as a rock solid rifle rest. There is both a tripod head mount and a camera mount at the top.

http://www.huntingbc.ca/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=6282&stc=1

Handy to have a walking stick, handy also to have a tripod and a gun rest. The weight is a bot more than walking sticks, but the multipurpose is worth it.

[BCrams]

A little analogy: 2 wheel drive vs 4 wheel drive. I find poles to be essential tools of backpack sheep hunts (i.e., safety, balance, distribute weight / pressure points) and I have used them since 2002. Great for SilTarp shelters to glass from or sleep under.

[Ltbullken]

Huge! Carrying a heavy pack over uneven ground - poles help you keep balance. Also, they can make a good improvised shooting rest.

[scoutlt1]

I started packing and using my ski poles (yea I'm a cheap bas***d) years ago when I went on hikes/hunts.

Best move ever!

[Carbonmatrix]

The sticks make a huge difference, last year I ran leki titanium and a couple of the locking clips snapped off. Testing out the black diamond alpine corks this year.

[Arctic Lake]

Harry Black Diamond brand, aluminium, oval tubes ( they are stronger than round tubes IMO )with flip locks and shock absorption in the handles .You'll love em ! Bought them at MEC 2 years ago. Not sure of price maybe around $130.
Arctic Lake

[Backwoods]

A little analogy: 2 wheel drive vs 4 wheel drive. I find poles to be essential tools of backpack sheep hunts (i.e., safety, balance, distribute weight / pressure points) and I have used them since 2002. Great for SilTarp shelters to glass from or sleep under.

X2- I'm using the Black Diamond Carbon Alpine and what they weigh, they will be with me every trip to the mnts, great tool, I also picked up the rubber tips so they arnt so loud on the rocks!

[Laurp99]

I have a pair of Komperdell walking staffs that I use for hiking, the top handle part un-crews off to reveal a camera mount and that is where I would screw on my V Yoke for shooting, I picked this up from Amazon for about $8 and works great!

http://www.huntingbc.ca/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=6283&stc=1

[Grizzlydick]

nipped into Costco for a look around, guess what, poles for $40./ pair, carbon fiber, cork handles.
just being neighbourly, an passing it on..................

[Rhyno]

Do you use the folding or the Flicklock poles? I have my reservations about the folding but haven't heard any complaints either. Downside to the folding poles is lack of length adjustment.

The ones I have are flip style locks, never used the folding version and am not a fan of the twist lock.

[RiverOtter]

Not a fan of the folding poles either, but that is based on playing around with them in store. Regular poles with 2 locking sections shorten up plenty IMO. Cam locks are superior to twist lock anyday.

[HarryToolips]

nipped into Costco for a look around, guess what, poles for $40./ pair, carbon fiber, cork handles.
just being neighbourly, an passing it on..................
Sounds good......

[HarryToolips]

Harry Black Diamond brand, aluminium, oval tubes ( they are stronger than round tubes IMO )with flip locks and shock absorption in the handles .You'll love em ! Bought them at MEC 2 years ago. Not sure of price maybe around $130.
Arctic Lake
Ok thanks for the info....

[elch jager]

I go with the more traditional Shillelagh in honour of my grandfather. Way better to beat down a threat than a flimsy aluminum pole.
Size it right to double as a shooting stick.

[RiverOtter]

1 pole is better than nothing, but way less beneficial than 2.

[Stone Sheep Steve]

1 pole is better than nothing, but way less beneficial than 2.

For sure. I used to use only one before I had packs with a scabbord.

[Pioneerman]

I was on the fence about getting some of these for the last month. I have had both knees replaced one this last Jan and the other Jan 2015, so was thinking these would get me back out quicker wondering around in the bush. So after seeing all the positive comments here I ordered a set and got them today. Looking forward to trying them out if the snow ever stops lol

[AgSilver]

I might pop into the store with a capital C and grab a second (which would actually be my third) pair. They're just good to have! And then I have one that I can possibly wreck while trying to modify it into a monopod.

[GoatGuy]

They work great to help old bones.

Need to be adjustable for terrain.

Buy decent ones so they last.

[WesHarm]

Anyone double their poles up as shooting sticks? Haven't tried with my poles yet, just feel like it would at least be more steady then an offhand shot?

[huntcoop]

I might pop into the store with a capital C and grab a second (which would actually be my third) pair. They're just good to have! And then I have one that I can possibly wreck while trying to modify it into a monopod.

Keep us posted on the work project.

[RiverOtter]

Anyone double their poles up as shooting sticks? Haven't tried with my poles yet, just feel like it would at least be more steady then an offhand shot?

A single pole, set to height and using your pinky/ruby to grip the handle and thumb, index/middle finger to grip your rifle, works quite well for short to medium distance. Any longer shots, you usually have time to find or create a better rest.

[Mtn Man]

Started with old ski poles.... upgraded to a pair of lekkis... broke one on my first trip down a mountain... better than busting a knee tho...bought black diamond oval shaped ones with shock absorbers , have used them for years now with no issues. A must have when your packing something on your back that should be strapped to a mule instead. A must have in my books.

[HarryToolips]

Got what seems like a decent pair yesterday at Costco, thanks for the tip there RiverOtter...

[GetLethal]

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01BBPHV86/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I ordered these up for me and the wife yesterday. Theyre cheap as heck so we'll just see how they hold up.

[RiverOtter]

Got what seems like a decent pair yesterday at Costco, thanks for the tip there RiverOtter...
I'm confident you'll be a pole advocate, from here on out. And your welcome.

[cas-has-cars]

Same Leki poles on two trips to the mountains, shocks in poles. Great for up and down mountains, crossing creeks, swatting wet buck brush, and priceless when getting up from a sitting position with heavy packs. Do not leave home with out them. Just as important as your footwear and wind Breakers.

[AgSilver]

Keep us posted on the work project.

Will do, heading up to Coldstream for the weekend to hang out with my folks so may con my step-dad into helping me do it...he's a tinkery kinda guy. Fun project.

[BgBlkDg]

I started with old ski poles in the early '70s, went to Komperdell C3s, twist locks about 2006 and damned near died from a near fall into Lynn Creek from high above the creek when one lock gave way. So, I then got BD Carbon whatevers, the top of their line and have some miles on these.

I wont go sans poles now as I am too old, semi-crippled and need tha balance and support, so, I HIGHLY recommend them to all mountain hunters and advocate buying the BEST you can afford. I do not care for shock absorbers, but, each to his own.

[Citori54]

I recently picked up a pair of Black Diamond Trail Shock pro poles fro $140. Seem pretty good although don't have much to compare to.My wife just bought the Costco poles for $44 and while they may not be quite as high end as the BD, for the price they are pretty decent and at least if you break one or more likely in my case leave them by a tree after having a leak it won't break the bank to replace.

[ajr5406]

I didn't even consider trekking poles until a couple of months ago, but they make so much sense! Even without packing an animal, getting through sketchy terrain is so much easier with them.

Just picked up the Black Diamond Trail poles from MEC for $110 yesterday. They look well built and pretty solid, so should do the trick.

[OoDark]

you will have more gusto and pep after the same 5 km pack out with poles. but they take getting use to like any new change in gear.

[Grizz.325]

Like others have said, they really r essential for any serious Mtn hunter.

[waserwolf]

Although I don't carry hiking poles, I carry a wooden hiking stick. It has assisted me several times stepping over large downed trees, down steep slopes as well as catching me after a slip. The biggest benefit though is being able to steady my Binochs on top of it while standing, makes a huge difference in glassing stability. I got the idea from a good buddy of mine and now I don't leave home without my trusted walking stick. I'm actually thinking of making another one, this time adding some personal touches such as a leather strap and some burnt wood drawings.

[Duk Dog]

A must IMO for backpacking. Have used a couple different kinds over the years, using Leki now.

[GOLDEN TOP SNIPER]

Put it this way Harry, you do one trip with, you'll never want to go without. I only wish I'd have gotten on the program years ago; my knees would likely be in much better condition today.

I second that .. i love my poles now .

[twoSevenO]

amazing. If i'm hiking with more than 30lbs on my back i use the poles. The assistance I get from using them on the descent is amazing on my knees. Helps a lot.

I got a pair of black diamond poles from MEC for $115. Expensive but they are very very helpful.

[Rupert Retired]

When I first got hiking poles, like about 20 years ago or so, I researched the best type, and finally ended up with Komperdell Carbon C3 Ultralites. These worked great for about a decade, then I slid off a rain-slick boardwalk, and snapped a pole! So, I decided to do my research again. I investigated all the sites that I could find, and came up with, again, Komperdell Carbon C3 Ultralites, which I bought again! I snapped another one with a full pack of Caribou meat in about 2007 or so, had to step from one rock to another and just a bit too much lateral pressure on the pole. But I would still recommend these, they have worked great for me all these years. Just watch the lateral pressure, but I think that is true for all hiking poles. Oh, and one tip: slide your hand through the straps upwards, then bring your hand down to grip the handle. This way, when walking up hill, the pressure is on your straps and between your thumb and forefingers, and not on holding the handle tight. In fact, you can open your hand and hold it in a loose position, which is good for your hand muscles. Also, with this grip, when walking through thick brush, just let them go, they will trail along behind you, until you get out of the brush. Good luck, and good hiking / hunting!

[HarryToolips]

^^^^this is what I started doing, it does work well.....

[Good Old Outdoors]

I went years in the army carrying weight long distances and thinking to myself that trekking poles were pointless, like suck it up and just walk. But since the macho days ended, I use trekking poles for any hikes or hunts where side hilling and steep terrain is a possibility. I basically don't leave home without them.

[Taylor329]

I will bring my poles on every single hunt, love them. Bought them at MEC, BlackDiamond brand with curved cork handles, telescoping design, 3 locks. They take alot of weight off your legs when packing in (and especially out) heavy loads, also they were awesome at giving me extra stability in slippery river crossings, or if the current was moving fast. For how much they weigh, and the little amount of space they take up strapped to the side of your pack, I feel it's totally worth it!

[albravo2]

In line with Rupert's advice on how to hold the poles, I will add that I tend to put the top of the handle in my palm when I'm walking down a steep grade. If you hold the handle in your hand your wrist gets very tired because of the angle necessary to contact the ground.

Putting the end in the palm of my hand took a bit of getting used to but I can really unload my knees when I have a straight line from my shoulder, through my arm and hand, through the pole, to the ground.

[Fred1]

Poles are for pansies! Haha... Took poles for the first time on a sheep hunt a couple years ago. Things saved my life twice coming out heavy. I take them about 80% of the time now and always into the mountains! Love them!

[HarryToolips]

Another advantage is they are the poles for your a-frame when using a sil-tarp...

[Good Old Outdoors]

That's one piece of kit I don't have yet, but I want one

[Jrax]

I picked up the Black Diamond Alpine Core poles and tested them out on fathers day on a hike/goat scout trip. I was surprised at how much easier and safer the hike seemed overall going up and down. These are my first poles and the first time in my life I looked forward to creek crossings as now they seem easy. Wont ever go again in mountains without them.

[HarryToolips]

That's one piece of kit I don't have yet, but I want one
They sell decent ones at MEC...I just got the scout tarp, feels like it's well made..

[Good Old Outdoors]

I will have to check them out, thanks

[Salty]

I bought a set a few years ago and they're always strapped to my pack, don't weigh much and they're not in the way. Personally I don't use them 90% of the time but they're there for ugly stretches, heavy bush wacking or best of all with a pack full of meat that's when they really shine.

[AgSilver]

I will have to check them out, thanks

Also check into the ones found at the big warehouse store. Great value for $40.

[AgSilver]

Keep us posted on the work project.

Figured I'd drop an update. Finished up a pole a couple of weeks ago but forgot it in Vernon, so don't have pics to post up right now.

Essentially, took one of the Costco poles, boiled the top of the handle for a few minutes to loosen the glue, pulled out the top rubber section (which actually broke a tiny bit of the carbon where a rod had been inserted that I couldn't see).

Then, took a very cheap short shooting stick that I grabbed on amazon for $15'ish (https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B0026KCDAW/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1), and cut the aluminum open at the top so that we could remove the part that holds the "tripod screw" part that the rest screws onto. Ground down that piece until it fit into the top of the Costco pole, then Gorilla Glue'd it in.

Should be an ideal setup on the one pole. I'll post some pics after I get it back in a few weeks.

[Camp Cook]

I have the cascades and they're great. Best price on a carbon pole I've found. Nice cork handles, too. I want to modify mine to put a monopod rest in the top of one. Have to figure that out but can't be that hard.

I just bought a pair of these I am amazed at how light they are.

I used an aluminium set for years that are now getting passed down to my son.

I just loop the two handles together with the straps and use them as a bipod.