1st set of spikes

[ecolojim]

I know this topic has been covered ad nauseum but I have a couple of fairly specific questions to ask with regards to buying my first set of spikes.

 

Essentially I dont have time nor facility to try loads before I buy, and I dont suppose it's as easily available as hanging in a harness in a shop anyway.

 

I spent a few hours in a pair of steel straight shanked spikes one day last week and didnt find them uncomfortable, just strange to get used to being my first spike climb. I also did not find the weight of the steel particularly prohibitive, so I dont know if lighter aluminium models would actually be better or the steel weight give confidence in gaff placement and depth??

 

Can someone please explain to me the concept of the twisted shank spikes like bashlin make. Are these an improvement on the straight ones? Is the twist to change the way you position your feet with regards the tree, or are they twisted for a more ergonomic fit to your leg?

 

What does anyone know about the 'climb right' alloy spikes like the ones Honey Bros sell. Seem a very good price for an alloy spur... If theyre any good that is.

 

Thanks

 

Jim

[Jamie]

like everything else Jim, you can get by in steel just fine but apparently you won't get as tired in aluminium. I've only ever climbed in Alu Kliens.

 

best advice, buy the best you can afford.

 

Jamie

[Peter]

I'v used straight steel bashlins for the last 8 years with no real problems. The weight issue is a bit of a smokescreen I think, the actual weight saving between steel and carbon fibre is not that big when you compare it to the weight of your feet in chainsaw boots!

If you can afford alloys then get alloys, but I would rather have bashlin, buckingham, or klien steel than an own brand alloy.

[Steve Bullman]

the only time you notice the weight of your spikes is when you lift them out of the truck to put them on. i wored steel for years, recently(3 years back) got carbons....sure they're sexy, but i dont think the lesser weight has made any difference personally.

[vduben]

I'v used straight steel bashlins for the last 8 years with no real problems. The weight issue is a bit of a smokescreen I think, the actual weight saving between steel and carbon fibre is not that big when you compare it to the weight of your feet in chainsaw boots!

If you can afford alloys then get alloys, but I would rather have bashlin, buckingham, or klien steel than an own brand alloy.

i noticed the weight instantly, going from steels to carbons was the best thing i ever did, just like going from komet to the tree motion!!!!

twisted shanks fit and position you better i think

[Jamie]

you may notice the weight loss when you pick them out of teh truck, but after 8 hours you'll still be knackered. the heavier spikes may make your legs even more muscle bound.

 

Jamie

[vduben]

i have scrawny legs anyways, but after 8 hours you are nackered with out spikes!!!!

[Log-ologist]

I'v used straight steel bashlins for the last 8 years with no real problems.

 

Mine are 10 years old and all I did was change the pads and keep em sharp. Unless your racing up trees the weight is less important than comfort and fit.

[Ian F]

If you can afford the Bashlin Alloys, they will last you years. Plus getting hold of replacement Pads, straps, screws and gaffs will never be a problem.

You can even add the Velcro Pads in the future.