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Compare Best Backpacking Staves head to head
Pick any two picks from this list and see specs, current price, pros, cons and reader ratings side by side.
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#2 on this list
Black Series FX Carbon
Leki
German engineering, Aergon grips, and the fastest folding deployment in the category.
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- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
#3 on this list
LT5 Three Piece Carbon
Gossamer Gear
4.5 ounces per pole and still strong enough to pitch a trekking-pole shelter.
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- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
Specs side by side
| Spec | Black Series FX Carbon | LT5 Three Piece Carbon |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Leki | — |
| Material | Carbon Fiber | Carbon Fiber |
| Grip Type | Aergon Air | — |
| Locking Mechanism | Speed Lock 2 Plus / Push Button | FlickLock |
| Folded Length | 40 cm (approx. 15.7 inches) | — |
| Weight (pair) | 460g (approx. 16.2 oz) | — |
| Weight (per pole) | — | 4.5 oz |
| Adjustability | — | 3-Piece Telescoping |
| Grip Material | — | EVA Foam |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Black Series FX Carbon
- Unmatched rapid deployment and folding mechanism
- Superior Aergon Air grips for comfort and ventilation
- Excellent vibration dampening from carbon construction
- Extremely compact folded length for easy packing
- Reliable and secure Speed Lock 2 Plus length adjustment
- Premium price point, significant investment
- Carbon fiber can be prone to sharp impact damage
- Not the absolute lightest option available
LT5 Three Piece Carbon
- Extremely lightweight, significantly reduces pack burden
- Excellent strength-to-weight ratio for carbon fiber
- Reliable flick-lock adjustment mechanism
- Versatile for pitching trekking-pole shelters
- Comfortable EVA foam grips for long-term use
- Higher susceptibility to impact damage compared to aluminum
- Premium price point due to materials and design
- Not ideal for aggressive bushwhacking or heavy loads
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