Warbonnet Ridgerunner - Best trekking poles with flicklock to use as spreader bars?

**Karl** · 07-23-2015, 07:16

If the shortest length you need is indeed 28.8-29", then there are a fair few Leki flicklock models you could choose from.
http://shop.leki.com/en/category.php...tegory_id=8426
All of the models with Aergon handles can be used with Lekis own Photoadapter:
http://www.amazon.com/LEKI-Aergon-Ph.../dp/B00CHJ6QY6
It looks like the camera mount hole in the photoadapter doesn't line up with the pole shaft, though.

Mountain King also makes a pole with a camera mount in line with the shaft:
http://www.mountainking.co.uk/menu/23/Expedition/
Look for the Expedition Photo model.
Also not flicklock.

**MetalBackpacker** · 07-28-2015, 07:19

Thanks for the reply. I just got done modifying my Black Diamond trail shock trekking poles with flicklock to work with my ridgerunner. I bought a 1/4" to 1/4" male screw adapter for cameras on ebay, then drilled a hole into the top of the trekking pole. I screwed in the adapter and threaded the trekking pole tip set from Warbonnet onto the exposed thread on the trekking poles. It's actually pretty sturdy. I haven't had a chance to test this out yet as I have nowhere to hang at home, but I'm pretty confident it will work as it seems really solid. If there's any interest I can post pictures and more info.

**Levi Tate** · 07-28-2015, 10:07

Yup, pictures please.

**Brien** · 07-28-2015, 11:23

I also use the Mountainsmith Trekker poles for the same reasons as Paul. Great hiking poles and work perfectly as spreader bars with no mod needed.

**whmoller** · 10-01-2015, 15:14

On the MS Trekker poles has anyone had an issue? I had an REI Hiking Pole with Camera mount snap; very unpleasant. Weights of those using the MS poles? I am 205'. Any precautions that anyone has? I like my RR but I do not like lugging the stock poles around (petty, I know). I have ordered a set from Amazon in order to test them, so I would appreciate any insights folks have.

**pgibson** · 10-01-2015, 15:30

I've been using them for around 3 years now. No issues. I'm around 180.

**zukiguy** · 10-01-2015, 16:03

Head to the home improvement store and pick up a couple of 1/4"-20 bolts. I used a small aluminum screw in that size to make my own camera mount. On my old REI poles I punched a pin to remove the straps and access the small cavity for the adjuster. I drilled a hole and was able to insert the screw from the inside, securing it with some epoxy and a nut. Instant camera mount.

For spreader bar use you'll probably want to make sure that the stud is shorter than the depth of the pole insert, or add a washer. The pressure from hammock use will probably pop the screw loose unless you put the majority of the stress on the grip instead of the stud.

If you don't really want/need the camera mount just skip all of this. Find a screw about the right size for the pole tips and drive it into the top of the grip. Cut off the head and sand the stud smooth....instant spreader bar!! The majority of the stress on the spreader bars is compression. The tips just keep them from sliding out of the hardware. I don't believe a tight fit is necessary.