When I started I just used my trekking pole. It never failed once camp was set up, someone would want to day-hike or evening hike and my poles were locked to a tree. Then I switched to a tent-pole splicer (about half inch in diameter and 4" long), and used that. I've switched most of my stuff to a toggle-less system using the whoopies backwards, and dutch whoopie hooks on the adjustable end, so it's lighter, less bulky, and no toggles.