Review: Argali Carbon X Trekking Poles

For years, my hunting buddies have been using trekking poles, but I’ve shunned them, thinking the poles would be an unnecessary accessory, only taking up space in my pack and adding extra weight. But as I’ve gotten older and less nimble, aches and pains are more frequent, so this spring I decided it was time to invest. My first choice was the Argali Carbon X Trekking Poles ($174). At only 15oz for the pair, they’re light, and the telescoping legs compress to just over 25 inches at the smallest, so I can stuff them in my pack no problem.

After the first use, I noticed less stress on my knees and lower back, plus more stability on uneven ground, which helps my confidence when packing a heavy load. I’ve even started taking a pole on fishing trips to help cross fast-moving water.

A bonus of the Carbon X is the Argali’s “Grip-Adapt” handle, which consists of a 1/4” X 20 threaded hole on the top of each pole. You can either thread on a QuickShot Adaptor ($19) shooting yoke, or an X3 Adaptor ($20), the latter of which allows you to connect the two poles together to make a pole for Argali’s teepee tents, or a monopod that fits most binocular adaptors. It’s going to take time at the range to get proficient with the QuickShot, but it will be worth the effort. Having an adjustable, on-the-fly shooting stick will allow me to shoot from sitting, on my knees, or even standing. All said, the trekking poles are a worthwhile investment—not just for the pack out, but for the hunt, too.

The poles and adaptors are available at argalioutdoors.com.