I have a few ideas for making some very lightweight hiking staffs.

was wondering if some swanky, havasupai hikers, would be interested in a little durability testing:
Basically , they will made of a very lightweight, strong wood(Paulownia) sealed on the business end w/ a copper cap and a proturding 3/8" SS point. Paulownia wood has a density similar to balsa wood

They will be sanded smooth and sealed w/ varnish.

For the grip, I was thinking some handlebar tape, or just wrapped twine or string, or just plain.. There will be a strap/hand loop, as well.

I will custom make the staffs to suit your height and grip size.

The staff should be of a length, such that, the height of the grip is around eye level. This is best, as it allows you to easily transfer weight off your legs- and to your upper body. Studies have shown that hikers can go farther/have more endurance- when hiking w/ a staff- due to spreading the load around- easier footing, too.. It also has many other uses along the trail/ in camp.

-a link that tells about different designs- commercial and homebrew.


DOnations would be more than welcome if they suit your needs, survive the hike ,and are to your liking.

This is hardly a big moneymaking venture, more like a small prototype testing run. If you just want to use the stick for the trip and return it, that's fine.. If it breaks, that's fine, too, as these are prototypes only, and I need to know how well they survive the abuse.

Not sure I want to use one, though I might give it a shot on our weekend hikes.

5.5 miles last night. That's about our limit for an evening hike due to time constraints.

A few years back I took my Saguaro rib staff. Like it better without it, even though it is strong as hell and light weight.

huh huhhuh huh...he said ribbed.

quote:

sealed on the business end w/ a copper cap and a proturding 3/8" SS point.

I think most hikers prefer a PROTRUDING point. Sorry, couldn't let that one slide.

quote:

Originally posted by Stone:
A few years back I took my Saguaro rib staff. Like it better without it, even though it is strong as hell and light weight.

Saguaro makes an excellent staff. Possibly, the grip diameter of your staff is too large -for you to hold comfortably -for extended periods. If only I had that problem...

I suppose I could have used the word "pole" in place of "staff", but I thought that would get beat to death.

quote:

Originally posted by Reserector:

quote:

sealed on the business end w/ a copper cap and a proturding 3/8" SS point.

I think most hikers prefer a PROTRUDING point. Sorry, couldn't let that one slide.

Ya I saw that proturdin' point, but forgett'd to giterdun.

I figur thuh "concept" staff should have a few features:

-built in GPS(or just a small compass)
...
-secure storage capability
...
- weaponized(beyond just the sharp point)- pepper spray, taser, etc,.

- can be lengthened or shortened by simply unscrewing sections.

- custom molded grip, or diameter in "grip region"

- lanyard

-what else?

hollow it out for "storage"

Hmmm....reminds me of a Rob Scheider sketch on SNL

A place for waterproof matches, a tooth pick and tweezers. Maybe some tiolet paper. Oh, and don't forget duct tape. How about an optional sun umbrella?

Just wondering....does pepper spray work on snakes?

quote:

Originally posted by Reserector:How about an optional sun umbrella?

I wear a hat when out in the sun- no need for umbrella.
I could put the matches in the
secure backpacker booty storage area- maybe a
"space blanket" rolled up inside, too-well there ya go, you got yuor umbrella.

quote:

Originally posted by Reserector:
Just wondering....does pepper spray work on snakes?

The spike on the end of the staff will work just fine as a deterrent.

Available in most popular colors including carbon fiber.

no- just "natural"(exterior clear varnish).

I suppose "camo-GrandCanyon SANd" might be another possibility.