This is a very sturdy, albeit slightly heavy, hiking staff. I have a quick-release camera mount attached full-time on this pole and the detents make it useful as an extendable monopod. The foam rubber covering tends to shred easily if you do any hiking in an area where there are low lying branches or other snagging foliage. For this reason I use a sleeve of electrical shrink wrap tubing (available in various colors) as an outer covering. This is my second staff. I bought the slightly newer version after losing the first one. I've been very satisfied with the build quality of both of these.

Customer Service

Excellent. I've gotten rapid e-mail responses and quick return of an item sent in for a minor repair (well out of warranty).

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Leki pole

Very sturdy. Perhaps a bit heavier than some that I''ve seen. I also use it as a camera monopod and in this it works great (I need a bit more stiffness than most trekking poles provide so I accept the additional weight) The screw mount is too long for a camera, but I always put a monopod head on the staff when I expect to use it as a monopod and the heads I have all take up the screw with no problem. Easy to adjust when going up-hill/down-hill, the push-button system is secure, no questions on whether or not you are locked in. Short end is good as a staff, easily extendable to eye height for use as a monopod when used with a head (I''m 5''5"). When broken down for transport quite compact.

Customer Service

Sent one info email to Cascade Designs, quick response. Never had any problem with exchanging/returning at REI

Similar Products Used:

Tried a friend''s REI staff. Tried Leki stuff in the store.