We bought this and a compact (smaller grip). And had to exchange 2x because the section of poles kept coming unglued from each other and when telescoping would come apart. After returning 2 for this reason, I just reglued them myself. Also, after a season of sitting, difficult opening telescope - sections had corroded together a bit with crud - looks like I put them away wet or they somehow got moisture/growth inside. Lastly, baskets went on one easy enough but very difficult on the other pole sets (remember - had to return a couple) I made a jig to help me do it and the worked great. The poles locked well and I generally liked them, However, I expect much more from BD and for $105 each set, I should not have had to do all that work. Can only rate Avg.

Very sturdy poles, and rock-solid locking mechanisms. I do not find them heavy. In fact they weigh less than my anti-shock "ultralights" from another MFR. Handy that they come with an extra set of snow bales. Great product.

I use these for summits and regular trekking. The weight is light, and they are solid. I took a hard stumble, and they saved me from a face-plant. The locks remained locked, but the bottom of the poles bent a bit (slight curve). Hint: to fix a bent pole remove the offending part. Fill it with sand, and bend it back into shape with your hands. Good as new... you might want to dump the sand out before re-assembling ;-)

These poles are very nice. The flip lock makes adjusting or breaking down and setting up a breeze. The elliptical shape of the tubes gives the poles much more strength than a standard round design without adding noticeably to the weight or size. This is nice when carrying a large pack in high winds or over rough terrain. I too disagree about them being bulky. I wear a size large glove, so unless you are wearing mitts or have hands like a bear I think they will be fine.

These are great poles, simple to use, no hassle flip lock, I don't spend the time twisting and twisting my poles to lock them in place. I disagree with the other comment about these being too bulking, unless you have 1 inch fingers. Have used them for about 6 months and the best poles I have bought

If your looking for an all-around pole these are not it. They are definitely heavy duty and therefore are too heavy for 90% of hiking and for me backcountry skiing. Also, the grips are too bulky for gloves.