They are cheap and light, but they bend quite easily. I used those for a long time, but got tired of incessantly replacing/straightening them and invested in a good set of durable stakes. Some gear is worth paying a premium for. JMO
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I really like the "V" shaped small aluminum stakes. They are light and will go through almost anything. I have some aluminum "nail" type stakes and they bend very easily. I have been using the same set of "V" stakes for a while now and there is no visible damage except for some scuffs and scratches. I have hammered them through what felt like solid rock several times. The "V" shape also give them great holding power. I just can't see spending the money for the titanium stakes.
The ones I use are pretty small, 6-8" I think, and I only paid like $1 each at my outfitters. They only downside it that they tend to collect dirt in the "V" section. I firm whack against a rock will take care of that most of the time.
That's pretty much the same idea as my Groundhogs...which, by the way, are only $2 or so at my REI store. Not bad for titanium. And I know they'll last pretty much forever. Interesting you haven't bent your aluminum ones - I've never had a set last me more than 3 or 4 uses.
Groundhogs are aluminum, no?
Hmm...I thought they were titanium. Maybe I'm wrong, unless they make them in aluminum too...
Maybe they used to make titanium ones. Currently all the ones listed on MSR's website are aluminum.
Guess you have now. :p Seriously, though, the last time I was in Charlotte, I got a few Groundhogs @ REI as well. I used them on the one night of my ill-fated AT section hike and they seemed to work well. I had no problem getting them in the ground @ Groundhog Creek Shelter at all.