what size gaffs?

[richyrich]

i currently use buckingham spikes with standard pole gaffs. i am just wondering if they would be better with the 60? mm tree gaffs, or whether these are more hassle ( spiking into trousers, etc) than the pole gaffs?

[David Goss]

i like the long gaffs, especially good when climbing an ivy covered nightmare!

[richyrich]

i think i will probably get a pair. i only do tree work part time, but never have much faith in the short spikes. i have some alloy bashlins with leather pads, and the buckinghams with velcro. the velcro ones are loads better- the bashlins dig into the legs.

[brachiator]

I have two sets!! I use american short gaffs for most work.. but i use another set with european long ones if dealing with thick barked trees or scruffy palms they reduce slippage (wouldn't recommend changing gaffs too often just cause of the shock force put on them. The short gaffs are much more supportive as your feet rest on the tree as opposed to balancing on little pedestals lol) what i've found anyway but each to their own..

P.S. spiking into trousers !!! you do know your pants have your legs in them right bud?

[Tony.Price]

I have two sets!! I use american short gaffs for most work.. but i use another set with european long ones if dealing with thick barked trees or scruffy palms they reduce slippage (wouldn't recommend changing gaffs too often just cause of the shock force put on them. The short gaffs are much more supportive as your feet rest on the tree as opposed to balancing on little pedestals lol) what i've found anyway but each to their own..

P.S. spiking into trousers !!! you do know your pants have your legs in them right bud?

 

Good advice:thumbup:

[Mike Hill]

You can do anything easily with the Longest Gaffs.They can be a bit tense on smaller diameter Trees with thin bark.However its nice to not have to pick where you Spike on Big Poplars or Old Pines etc.