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General Discussion => General Forum => Topic started by: Greg Massey on September 19, 2022, 10:38:59 PM

Title: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Greg Massey on September 19, 2022, 10:38:59 PM
As I get older i feel sometimes i need one of these collapsible type sticks that is easy to carry and pack. Do any of you use one of these and have a recommendation?
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Paulmyr on September 19, 2022, 11:10:18 PM
Picked on up for my pop's a few years back. The primos extendable one. The trigger stick I think it's called. Works well for him. He had ankle replacement surgery a few years back and it still gives him some problems. He uses it to keep his balance when walking. When we get set up he retracts it, jams it into the ground, and rests the barrel of his gun on it.
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: crow on September 19, 2022, 11:27:36 PM
I sometimes use a long wooden walking stick, have made them from maple and hickory.
the longer length is handy stepping over a log or getting up off the ground

Sam Fadala used one, he called it his Moses stick.


My only recommendation is be careful how hard you whack a snake with it if it has any sentimental value
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Nathan_Wiles on September 20, 2022, 12:53:04 AM
I use the Kelty Strider. It breaks down small enough and is sturdy for me. I have dealt with bad knees and stability issues for many years. A sturdy walking stick keeps me upright and moving forward in the woods. Link below, but Cabelas and Sportsmans Warehouse carry them as well. 25 bucks well spent imo.

https://www.amazon.com/Kelty-Strider-Hiking-Staff-Woodbine/dp/B078WHKPJZ/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?adgrpid=55245610279&gclid=CjwKCAjwpqCZBhAbEiwAa7pXeQvf5ZmeP5sB3fz0qb0Mw5twPAZAkeGOdyEjtd1seJIF3lYgk1YRRBoCDWMQAvD_BwE&hvadid=274713864881&hvdev=m&hvlocphy=9010663&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=10346719041527134126&hvtargid=kwd-296375821650&hydadcr=17133_9496626&keywords=kelty+walking+stick&qid=1663649320&sr=8-3

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Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Sir-diealot on September 20, 2022, 01:08:57 AM
I have been using them since maybe 2003 or 4 because of my car accident. For a long time it was something I had to use every single day, now it depend on the terrain, sometimes I use one and if on rocky ground I use two. I will say this, get one with a spring built in, it helps the hands quite a bit over simple wooden ones and makes it so you can go further as well as your hands, wrists, elbow and shoulder will not wear out as quickly. You can pick up simple ones like this on ebay which is what I used for years with no problems (except when I shut it in the car door)


If you feel you will use it quite often them spend the money for a decent set of trekking pols, they also have suspension but tend to be much better made once you get over $30.00 and the locking mechanisms are much better than the simple twisting ones like the picture I posted above. Some come with attachments for walking in snow or mud, kind of look like ski poles with the basket attached.

The problem both have is eventually the bottom plastic piece wears out and then you have a metal spike sticking out, fine if only used outdoors but if you use them like I used to have to the spike sucks on floors and will scratch the dickens out of a lot of them but it sounds like you only want one for outside. A friend of mines son got me a nice set of trekking poles, they are down in the truck but I will try to remember to get you the name of them well later today now, it is past midnight.
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Turkeybutt on September 20, 2022, 05:09:47 AM
Just one more thing for me to take into the woods but I might like one to help me get up off the ground. With that said, I'm thinking a long wooden walking/whacking stick is in order. Somehow I see myself bending those collapsible aluminum poles way too easy. 
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: jhoward11 on September 20, 2022, 08:16:54 AM
I'm a tight arsh...unscrew the handle to the crappy old broom and there you go.lol
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Tom007 on September 20, 2022, 08:25:10 AM
Hello Greg. I have this Mono-pod Shooting stick that doubles as a fantastic walking stick. It is 28 inches when compressed, extends out to 62 inches. It locks in real nice, quiet, easy. Made in USA, by Stoney Point. The "V" on top swivels, and also locks if needed. I used this Elk hunting, and it worked great with my Muzzleloader, and was a steady walking stick in the rocky Colorado terrain.  Very light weight, and can be used sitting down as steady rest for Turkey. You can attach a lanyard to it too. I have had it a long time. Good luck, I think it's a good option for you. Be well.
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Yoder409 on September 20, 2022, 10:40:48 AM
For turkey and flintlock deer, I have a walking stick I cut from (what I call) "redbrush".  It grows on the creek banks here.  Bark is quite reddish.  There's all kinds of straight stalks and nearly every one has a nice "Y" in it.  The stuff dries out very hard and durable.  Mine's cut to just the right length to serve as a shooting stick when I'm seated and a walking stick when I'm on the move.  I've NO idea how many deer and turkeys have succumbed to a gun rested in that "Y".

I'll get a pic of it.   It's fancy...........    :toothy12:
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Sir-diealot on September 20, 2022, 10:42:02 AM
Quote from: Turkeybutt on September 20, 2022, 05:09:47 AM
Just one more thing for me to take into the woods but I might like one to help me get up off the ground. With that said, I'm thinking a long wooden walking/whacking stick is in order. Somehow I see myself bending those collapsible aluminum poles way too easy.
I was close to 500lbs. at one point and never bent one except when I shut it in the car door and even then they were still usable. (Did it twice) By the way I just wanted to throw this out there, if you take the time to read the sticker on the Primos shooting sticks they all say not to use them as a walking stick as do all of my shooting sticks like the one Tom077 posted though mine is not the same brand as his. I have had that type collapse on me both when I was close to 500lbs. and when I was down to 228lbs. Not trying to insult anyone but I have been hurt enough times I am just trying to save anyone else any hurt. Best of luck with whatever you choose. I forgot to get the name of those for you but have to go back to town so will when I get home, sorry.
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Tom007 on September 20, 2022, 10:56:55 AM
Quote from: Sir-diealot on September 20, 2022, 10:42:02 AM
Quote from: Turkeybutt on September 20, 2022, 05:09:47 AM
Just one more thing for me to take into the woods but I might like one to help me get up off the ground. With that said, I'm thinking a long wooden walking/whacking stick is in order. Somehow I see myself bending those collapsible aluminum poles way too easy.
I was close to 500lbs. at one point and never bent one except when I shut it in the car door and even then they were still usable. (Did it twice) By the way I just wanted to throw this out there, if you take the time to read the sticker on the Primos shooting sticks they all say not to use them as a walking stick as do all of my shooting sticks like the one Tom077 posted though mine is not the same brand as his. I have had that type collapse on me both when I was close to 500lbs. and when I was down to 228lbs. Not trying to insult anyone but I have been hurt enough times I am just trying to save anyone else any hurt. Best of luck with whatever you choose. I forgot to get the name of those for you but have to go back to town so will when I get home, sorry.


I hear you Steve. I do not put tremendous pressure on mine, it's like a "guiding crutch" in rough terrain. I do not need a walking stick yet, but if I ever need one because of necessity, I would opt for a stick rated as such. My stick never collapsed on me, I am 5'10, 180 pounds. Everything here depends on the individual needs, thus all suggestions have merit for some, not for all. Great input. Be well....
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Greg Massey on September 20, 2022, 10:57:25 AM
Some great ideas everyone, keep the post coming and thanks for sharing your experience with these .... I really like the pictures your sharing ... The cork handle is what i'm looking at on the Trekking pole and i want a padded wrist strap... but i definitely want it to be collapsible whatever i decide....
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Greg Massey on September 20, 2022, 11:02:45 AM
Quote from: Tom007 on September 20, 2022, 10:56:55 AM
Quote from: Sir-diealot on September 20, 2022, 10:42:02 AM
Quote from: Turkeybutt on September 20, 2022, 05:09:47 AM
Just one more thing for me to take into the woods but I might like one to help me get up off the ground. With that said, I'm thinking a long wooden walking/whacking stick is in order. Somehow I see myself bending those collapsible aluminum poles way too easy.
I was close to 500lbs. at one point and never bent one except when I shut it in the car door and even then they were still usable. (Did it twice) By the way I just wanted to throw this out there, if you take the time to read the sticker on the Primos shooting sticks they all say not to use them as a walking stick as do all of my shooting sticks like the one Tom077 posted though mine is not the same brand as his. I have had that type collapse on me both when I was close to 500lbs. and when I was down to 228lbs. Not trying to insult anyone but I have been hurt enough times I am just trying to save anyone else any hurt. Best of luck with whatever you choose. I forgot to get the name of those for you but have to go back to town so will when I get home, sorry.


I hear you Steve. I do not put tremendous pressure on mine, it's like a "guiding crutch" in rough terrain. I do not need a walking stick yet, but if I ever need one because of necessity, I would opt for a stick rated as such. My stick never collapsed on me, I am 5'10, 180 pounds. Everything here depends on the individual needs, thus all suggestions have merit for some, not for all. Great input. Be well....
Tom i agree , it's not something i would use all the time , but i want the option to have one available for the times i think i will need one especially in ruff terrain... most of the trekking poles come in a pair , so that would give me the option of having one in each of my vehicles ... thanks for your input ...
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Tom007 on September 20, 2022, 11:13:29 AM
Anytime Greg, you are welcome my friend...best of luck..
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Greg Massey on September 20, 2022, 11:26:01 AM
Quote from: Tom007 on September 20, 2022, 11:13:29 AM
Anytime Greg, you are welcome my friend...best of luck..
Tom , i'm at that age in life, if it will aid and help me to continue hunting these gobblers then i plan on investing and looking at all options that are available. The day i have to leave my gun, calls and whatever else i carry hunting at home will be a very sad day in my life, it will be an end to a life long passion for a lot of us chasing gobblers... guys take whatever us older guys share with you and enjoy all your time outdoors with friends and family...
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: NCL on September 20, 2022, 11:36:51 AM
I have used trekking poles when I do my morning exercise walks. I have never used the poles when hunting but they are light and just have never thought to use  them for that purpose. What I read is the poles help reduce pressure on joints such as knees which is reason I bought and use them. Sierr@  Trading post usually has a good selection and at good prices.
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: lacire on September 20, 2022, 12:11:06 PM
Greg, I've used a pair of Leki carbon fiber trekking poles since 2019, they collapse down to 15", packable, light weight and strong. I've taken them on hunts to Mexico, Colorado, Nevada and here in California and they haven't let me down so far. The poles come with a metal spike on the end and I didn't like the noise they'd make hitting rocks so before I ever used them hunting I added the rubber walking tips to the bottoms of mine, the rubber tips grip really good and are quiet. For me the poles was money well spent.
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Dtrkyman on September 20, 2022, 01:26:05 PM
If you are going to rely on the pole to supprt your weight do not count on some shooting stick!

Get a dedicated trekking pole set, costco has cheap poles that get great reviews, Mountain Smith are not expensive either, otherwise Leki or Black Diamond.
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: lacire on September 20, 2022, 01:48:15 PM
Quote from: Dtrkyman on September 20, 2022, 01:26:05 PM
If you are going to rely on the pole to supprt your weight do not count on some shooting stick!

Get a dedicated trekking pole set, costco has cheap poles that get great reviews, Mountain Smith are not expensive either, otherwise Leki or Black Diamond.

I agree I wouldn't trust my weight on a pole with the twist type locking collars, the Leki trekking poles I have use sockets that each piece of the pole slips into, then you pull the handgrip up and they lock in place. They're other brand of poles that are probably just as good but an avid sheep hunter suggested these to me and I've been using them ever since.
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Tom007 on September 20, 2022, 02:45:26 PM
Quote from: Greg Massey on September 20, 2022, 11:26:01 AM
Quote from: Tom007 on September 20, 2022, 11:13:29 AM
Anytime Greg, you are welcome my friend...best of luck..
Tom , i'm at that age in life, if it will aid and help me to continue hunting these gobblers then i plan on investing and looking at all options that are available. The day i have to leave my gun, calls and whatever else i carry hunting at home will be a very sad day in my life, it will be an end to a life long passion for a lot of us chasing gobblers... guys take whatever us older guys share with you and enjoy all your time outdoors with friends and family...


Amen my brother. I always have my eyes on those adds with the camo mini-wheel chairs that have the tank-like tracks. Lord knows if we have to ride in on one to chase these bearded wonders, so be it. The passion we all share has no boundaries......you have a lot of years ahead of you for sure.
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Tom007 on September 20, 2022, 02:56:56 PM
Quote from: lacire on September 20, 2022, 01:48:15 PM
Quote from: Dtrkyman on September 20, 2022, 01:26:05 PM
If you are going to rely on the pole to supprt your weight do not count on some shooting stick!

Get a dedicated trekking pole set, costco has cheap poles that get great reviews, Mountain Smith are not expensive either, otherwise Leki or Black Diamond.

I agree I wouldn't trust my weight on a pole with the twist type locking collars, the Leki trekking poles I have use sockets that each piece of the pole slips into, then you pull the handgrip up and they lock in place. They're other brand of poles that are probably just as good but an avid sheep hunter suggested these to me and I've been using them ever since.
Quote from: lacire on September 20, 2022, 01:48:15 PM
Quote from: Dtrkyman on September 20, 2022, 01:26:05 PM
If you are going to rely on the pole to supprt your weight do not count on some shooting stick!

Get a dedicated trekking pole set, costco has cheap poles that get great reviews, Mountain Smith are not expensive either, otherwise Leki or Black Diamond.

I agree I wouldn't trust my weight on a pole with the twist type locking collars, the Leki trekking poles I have use sockets that each piece of the pole slips into, then you pull the handgrip up and they lock in place. They're other brand of poles that are probably just as good but an avid sheep hunter suggested these to me and I've been using them ever since.


I agree 100% here. I did not use the shooting stick to support my weight. Just used it as a rest, and "guide" through the rocky terrain. If and when I need a walking stick, I would definitely take the recommendations for one that has the sockets with the pins that securely lock the pole at the desired length. Be well...
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Sir-diealot on September 20, 2022, 04:08:23 PM
This is one of them, you can see it has a twisting lock and then has a clamping lock which I undid so you could see it better after that to keep him extra secure. They have never slipped on me and I have put some serious weight on them when I thought I was going to fall. The name brand in case the picture is blurry is trail buddy. Hope this helps.

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Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: aclawrence on September 20, 2022, 06:47:59 PM
I'm a believer in trekking poles / walking stick. I think it makes big difference when hiking and they are incredibly helpful for creek crossing. Especially the log crossing balance beam type. That being said I don't carry one while turkey hunting. I'm sure I'd prop it against a tree and walk off without it. I used to have a nice pair of carbon back diamonds I really liked a lot but I think I left them in a parking spot one time and they've never been seen again. I ha e a really cool  staff I made from Cedar that I enjoy carrying. Honestly the biggest advantage of any type of walking stick is knocking down them dang spider webs.


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Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: paboxcall on September 20, 2022, 07:04:25 PM
Started using a set of aluminum trekking poles similar to Steve's, and mine have same type locking mechanism. Never leave the truck without them spring and fall.
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: WV Flopper on September 20, 2022, 07:26:33 PM
I had to buy a new primos extendable "rest" last year. The Primos I had before would not hold my .22 up to shoot without bleeding down.
They are not walking sticks or trekking poles by no means.
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: perrytrails on September 25, 2022, 10:03:02 PM
Those Trail buddy poles get great reviews on Amazon. I recently got into hiking and picked up a set. I'm impressed after years of being in the woods. They add a lot of stability, highly recommend.
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Sir-diealot on September 25, 2022, 10:27:02 PM
Quote from: perrytrails on September 25, 2022, 10:03:02 PM
Those Trail buddy poles get great reviews on Amazon. I recently got into hiking and picked up a set. I'm impressed after years of being in the woods. They add a lot of stability, highly recommend.
I lost the attachments that go to them, for the price I might just buy another set so I can have them.
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Turkeyman on September 26, 2022, 04:58:34 PM
I've done a lot of hiking over the years...more than most, including the Adirondack 46 in NY for those of you that may be familiar. It would not have been easy or comfortable without my trek poles. In the past few years or so I've developed balance issues and have brought my trek pole(s) out of retirement. When doing the 46 I used two poles...when hunting one pole is sufficient to maintain my balance.

Even when doing the 46 I would see people using a walking stick...a useless piece of equipment IMO compared to a decent adjustable trek pole. BTW...if you get a trek pole get one with a cork rather than composite grip...you'll like it much better.
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: g8rvet on September 26, 2022, 05:16:44 PM
Sparkleberry makes a nice hard cane with little work.  Just have to find one shaped the way you want. Strip the bark off and let it dry.  I walked through the woods one day with a saw and cut a couple with a good shape and gave them to my dad.
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: PalmettoRon on September 27, 2022, 09:49:00 AM
I do a lot of hiking in hilly and mountainous terrain year round. I also use collapsable Leki carbon treking poles. They're fairly expensive, but take a lot off your knees and back.

I use them when hunting steep or rocky terrain and they've saved me from falling on my butt multiple times. They collapse to a very small size and easily fit in my vest or attached to a day pack.

They make both ascending and especially descending much easier and I'm still in good shape and not over weight. Try a treking pole if you hunt steep terrain and I think you'll be hooked.
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: WV Flopper on October 02, 2022, 06:39:57 PM
Black Ovis/Camo fire had 2 models on sale this morning. Their sales are short lived, if I remember correct these items are only on sale for a few more hours today.
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: aclawrence on October 15, 2022, 01:51:57 PM
Quote from: g8rvet on September 26, 2022, 05:16:44 PM
Sparkleberry makes a nice hard cane with little work.  Just have to find one shaped the way you want. Strip the bark off and let it dry.  I walked through the woods one day with a saw and cut a couple with a good shape and gave them to my dad.
What the heck is Sparkleberry?  I'm going to have to look this up. There's so many kinds of trees!  I have a staff out of cedar that is the most perfect shape. I think I could look for a lifetime and not find another like it.


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Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: lacire on October 25, 2022, 12:44:37 PM


For anybody interested see attach link below the description;

BlackOvis Crestone Collapsible Micro Carbon Trekking Poles are built for the light is right, backcountry hunter that wants to shave ounces, keep it light and fast but still rely on durability and quality in the gear he or she uses. With a collapsed length of a scant 14", when not in use these poles stow away into the smallest of pack compartments. Expanding out the three bottom sections connect to a fixed length while the upper section is adjustable up to a total pole length of 52" tall. The highly comfortable dense yet moldable foam pole grip has an extended length to accommodate multiple hand positions as the terrain kicks up and you need to choke up or adjust for safer passage. Aluminum flick locks and a lightweight minimalist adjustable wrist strap help round out features that make the Crestone carbon fiber trekking poles a must for your next backcountry adventure.

FEATURES
3 Section collapsible carbon shaft
100% Carbon fiber constructions
Multi-grip position high density foam handle
Adjustable ultra lightweight wrist strap
Aluminum flick-lock closure
Carbide tip with removable rubber cap
Hook and loop strap to secure poles together when collapsed
Usable Length: 115-130cm (46-52")
Weight per pair: 18oz
Collapsed Weight: 14"
1 year warranty


https://www.camofire.com/index.php/Deals/81
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: ChiefBubba on October 25, 2022, 01:30:23 PM
I just use a 1" piece of PCV pipe with caps glued to the ends. I can throw it in the back of the truck and leave it. I use about a 6 foot length. I made 2. I made it mainly for wading while duck hunting but use it in the deer woods too or hiking. Bubba
Title: Re: Trekking Pole or Walking Stick
Post by: Loyalist84 on October 27, 2022, 07:48:04 PM
Greg, I'm not well versed on trekking poles, but you might find what you're looking for in a wading staff. They usually collapse in 3 sections to about a foot in length and ride in a belt pouch, and they're fairly strong for their construction - no problem leaning on them even if you only want to use it as an assist.