Tech Tip: Trekking Pole Tip Replacement


This tech tip applies specifically to the Black Diamond Trail Shock trekking pole. Although, this would also apply to many of the trekking poles and whippets across the board.

Black Diamond trekking pole tip replacements
Black Diamond trekking pole tip replacements

Trekking pole tips wear out eventually with the rugged abuse they receive. Eventually the threads for the powder baskets will strip out. Keeping the whole tip assembly replaced every season will ensure you keep the baskets. Generally the tip replacement assembly is around $5.00 for a pair. You can find these at any retailer that carries Black Diamond accessories or order them directly from Black Diamond.

Replacing the tips is easy following a few simple tips.

The plastic material of the trekking pole tips expands with heat, and contracts when it cools. So with that in mind, this tech tip should be easy to follow.

1. Remove the inner baskets by gently pushing down to the threads (for powder baskets) and unscrewing the baskets counter clockwise.
2.
Soak the lower portion of the trekking pole in boiling water for about two minutes.
Soak the lower portion of the trekking pole in boiling water for about two minutes.
3.
Remove the trekking pole and gently pull off the existing tip -- you may need pliers or vise grips, but do it carefully so you don't crush or damage the pole.
Remove the trekking pole and gently pull off the existing tip — you may need pliers or vise grips, but do it carefully so you don’t crush or damage the pole.
4.
Tip removed
Tip removed, clean off any debris on shaft.
5.
Place the new tips on the lower shaft and tip them on with a rubber mallet.
Place the new tips on the lower shaft and tip them on with a rubber mallet.
New tips mounted
New tips mounted
New tips, inner baskets replaced.
New tips, inner baskets replaced.
Compact basket mod
Compact basket mod
That’s all there is to it! See the related tech tip on a quick mod and never lose a pole basket again.

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