Black Diamond Ascent

Review Date
January 15, 2004

Overall Rating
 5 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Reviewed by: petegresh(Unregistered User) ,  Climber

Price Paid:  $70.00 at Black Diamond web si

Summary:
I love these poles. I think Black Diamond's flicklock design is the best expandable pole design in the business. The things never slip. The shock-absorbing handles are nice for long descents. I've tried some twist-lock REI trekking poles that you really have to crank on to get so they won't slip; very annoying. The best feature by far is the flicklock system. My poles did not come with larger baskets, so I had to order some from the BD web site; neither REI nor any other outdoor store I've visited sells BD baskets.
Bottom line: these poles are compact when shortened, bomber when lengthened, and comfortable to use. A very good deal, though I do believe this model has been discontinued. If you want trekking poles, buy from Black Diamond.

Customer Service:
Haven't used it.

Similar Products Used:
REI Traverse, other crappy twist-locks

Review Date
October 4, 2002

Overall Rating
 4 of 5

Value Rating
 4 of 5

Reviewed by: mmacfer(Unregistered User) ,  Backpacker , from Baton Rouge, LA

Price Paid:  $70.00 at REI-Outlet.com

Summary:
A great buy for some excellent poles. The flick-lock system is much easier and more effective (won't give out under pressure) than comparable twist-lock poles I've seen.

My only complaint is about the little rubber pinch-collars covering the push-buttons on the bottom joints. The cheap plastic collars cracked and came off BOTH my poles about 60 miles into a 93-mile solo trek. At the time I just used small strips of athletic tape to keep them in place until I got off the trail. The same has happened to several other people with the same poles. (BD has since admitted the mistake... see below.)

Customer Service:
BD Customer Service is excellent. They admit the original pinch collars weren't of good enough materials, and are sending me two replacements (made of stronger rubber) as I type this, without charge.

Review Date
April 2, 2001

Overall Rating
 5 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Reviewed by: Craig(Unregistered User) ,  Mountaineer , from Portland, Maine USA

Price Paid:  $70.00 at Eastern Mountain Sports

Summary:
On the few treks that I have taken since I bought this item at the beginning of the year, I have been very impressed by its performance thus far. The flick locks are surprisingly strong and maintain a stable pole length. The recoil in the anti-shock grips are a nice feature to maintain your balance should lose a steady footing. The included snow cups are an excellent feature if you are snowshoeing or winter camping, as are the generous tip covers for use on harder surfaces so you don't risk premature deterioration of the carbide tips. The grips are rubber and I find them to be more comfortable their cork or foam counterparts. In my opinion, an excellent value and outstanding performance.

Similar Products Used:
None