titaniun shepherd hooks vs MSR groundhogs

[nu2hike]

Which would you choose for the AT? I have both and prefer the weight of the shepherd hooks, but I must admit I have trouble keeping up with them. Very easy to lose in leafy ground cover! I've thought about painting them an orange day glo to improve their visability!
I'm trying deperately to get my base pack weight down and every little bit helps!

[Shug]

I go with Ti shepherds....painted the hook end bright blue.
Have groundhogs but never take them on trips.....
Shug

[Wags]

yeah it's an easy way to lose a few ounces. just be responsible with them when you are in camp. another vote for the ti stakes...

[R3l@x]

I use Lawson's 6 inch Ti-eye's from the first batch that were painted a red/orange but lately I've been thinking a loop of Kelty triptease or bright yellow Zing-it might help with not loosing them and give me a way to clip them all together.

[G.L.P.]

i go back and forth between Ti Shepard hooks and the blue Easton stakes
the TI SH are nice if the ground isn't very rocky also paint the ends so you can see them

the easton stakes are just a little more heavy but for rocky ground or cold weather there worth the weight ...

[JerryW]

I like the Ti better than my Groundhogs, too. Might have to put a rock on top of them if the ground is real loose. And for some visual confirmation on the blue paint check out:

Gossamer Gear Tips and Tricks


Jerry

[Rain Man]

Another vote for painting Ti stakes. Worked really well for me AFTER I lost one.

Rain Man

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[mazz1111]

I have a fear of losing stakes as well.....as for the painted ends or small string...I've still lost 'em.

I just flagged each of my stakes with about 8" inches of surveyor tape- bright orange...

kind of obnoxious looking..but if I end up burying my stakes all the way and the guy comes loose for some reason- I will have no problem finding the flags....weighs nothing...

[gunner76]

I go with Ti shepherds....painted the hook end bright blue.

I started spray painting the ends of mine blue too

[Dutch]

Ti hooks. If you lose one it is no biggie. You can always find a log or good stick until you replace it.