Climbing spikes best ones? Difference between American gaffs and normal?

[Sawted]

Hi have a pair of treehog gaffs which have done me well to start with but now progressing aren't so comfy for long periods and do have a tendency to slip even after I've sharpened them any advice appreciated what difference detween American and normal gaffs noticed it on different websites

[Darrin Turnbull]

Here's something taken from treetools

http://treetools.co.nz/BlogRetrieve.aspx?PostID=59027&A=SearchResult&SearchID=10083412&ObjectID=59027&ObjectType=55

Work Safe. On Rope. 09 274 8090

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Tree gaffs from Europe and USA are different

Richard Tregoweth - Tuesday, December 01, 2009

 

In arboriculture the Americans and the Europeans do things differently. Different climbing styles and different equipment - probably due to different trees.

 

Most differences are obvious but some are more subtle: tree gaff styles for example. There are the American-style gaffs - straight with a narrow point and European-style gaffs with the slightly crooked leg and a wider platform tip.

 

Ask ten climbers which gaffs they prefer and you will get ten answers. From our discussions with climbers it appears the European style gaffs are better suited to softer, thicker barked trees (eg pines). The crooked, slightly offset leg and wide platform tip offer better purchase in the bark.

 

Climbers using American-style gaffs in this type of tree say they tend to loose grip more easily due to the narrower tip - making for a tiring day. Some customers have both styles and change gaffs depending on the trees they are working on.

 

One thing is certain: you should always check which gaffs are on the climbers you intend to buy before you make your investment.

[MattyF]

Have tried both on the geckos prefer the American though. Pretty sure they are standard on most spikes for a reason.

[Sawted]

Thank you that's a help

[Northern monkey]

I have Buckingham allys with Big Buck pads. if you want comfort try this setup from honey brothers. Plus they dont slip

[Benny360]

I previously had problems with achy knees after long days on my kleins, bought a pair of aluminium geckos and its some of the best money Ive ever spent. So much more comfortable I can spen all week in them and not feel any grief

[Steve Bullman]

i had the european gaffs on my first pair of geckos. Hated them but stuck with them as I have 10 years of muscle memory to iron out. I did get used to them, but when I eventually changed back to the american gaffs everything was awesome again