Rent screw-lock trekking poles for Mount Elbrus

Twist-lock trekking poles support balance on approaches, trekking routes and suitable snow travel around Mount Elbrus. Their expander sits inside the shaft, so a pole can look normal even when the lock is not engaged correctly. Correct extension, tightening and repeated load checks are therefore essential. Trekking poles do not replace an ice axe, self-arrest skills or technical equipment required for the planned terrain.

Set a practical working length

Adjust the pair while wearing the boots and backpack intended for the route. On level ground, begin with a comfortable bend at the elbow and relaxed shoulders. A sustained climb often feels better with shorter poles, while a descent may require more reach. On a traverse, one pole can be changed temporarily, but return the pair to a predictable setting before the terrain changes again.

Never copy a single height chart without testing the result. Body proportions, snow depth, slope, pack weight and movement style affect the useful length. Most importantly, keep every shaft within its marked extension range. Passing the stop mark reduces the overlap between sections and can cause the joint to bend, separate or fail.

Loosen, extend and tighten in the correct sequence

Hold the adjoining sections rather than twisting the grip against the tip. Loosen only enough for the section to slide, extend it to the chosen mark, then rotate in the locking direction until it holds. Do not use maximum force: overtightening can jam or damage the internal expander. If the section spins without engaging, collapses while tightening or cannot be released normally, return the pole to Rock’N’Rent staff.

Load-test every joint

After setting both poles, press down with controlled walking force on firm ground. Each section must remain at the chosen mark without turning or shortening. Test again after collapsing and re-extending the poles. Do not jump on the pair or use a sharp shock load; the aim is to confirm normal walking support, not to prove climbing strength.

Inspect the complete pair

Sight along the shafts for bends, cracks and deep dents. Compare the two poles and confirm that their sections belong together. Check grips, straps, baskets and tips for looseness or damage. Collapse and extend every section through its normal range: grinding, binding or uneven resistance can indicate dirt, corrosion, ice or a damaged internal expander.

Use straps deliberately and test them in gloves

Adjust the straps with the gloves you expect to wear. They should support normal pole use without cutting circulation or preventing the hand from releasing. In terrain where a pole could catch between rocks, vegetation or equipment, follow the responsible leader’s instruction on whether the straps should be used.

Cold, water and dirt affect internal locks

Wet snow, fine grit and temperature changes can change the holding force of a screw lock. Keep joints as clean as practical, avoid laying open sections in dirty snow and recheck the locks at sensible stops. After transport, a hard impact or a fall onto a pole, inspect the shaft and test every joint again before relying on it.

Collection and return checklist

• confirm the adjustment range suits the user;
• respect every printed extension-limit mark;
• set and compare the working lengths;
• load-test every screw lock with controlled pressure;
• inspect shafts, grips, straps, baskets and tips;
• practice collapsing and securing the pair to the backpack;
• record existing damage before departure.

Understand the limitation

A trekking pole is a walking aid, not a fall-arrest tool, anchor, probe or substitute for an ice axe. Use equipment and movement techniques appropriate to the route and current conditions. If a shaft bends or a lock starts slipping, stop using the pole as a support and report the fault rather than straightening or repairing it yourself.