Cascade Mountain Tech 3K Carbon Fiber Quick Lock Trekking Poles Cork Grip

The best of the inexpensive pole lineup from Cascade Mountain Tech.

Many years ago, while in the North Cascades, I sprained my ankle. It was 7 steep miles back to the car. My wife had trekking poles and loaned them to me so I could "crutch" down the mountain. With the help of the poles, I survived and have been using poles ever since.

I have pairs from Komperdell, Leki, Black Diamond, and three different versions from Cascade Moutain Tech: the aluminum, standard carbon fiber (CF), and the 3k carbon fiber version.

 The 3k is the lightest of the three at 8 ounces per (plus 1 ounce of duct tape I added).

The difference in weight is mostly negligible, but the 3k version does feel a bit lighter in the hand. And it is slightly stiffer than the standard CF version and about equal in stiffness to the aluminum version.

The biggest advantage of the 3k CF is its strength compared to cheaper CF. CF comes in different grades. 3K CF has higher elongation to failure and a better strength compared to 6K, 9K or 12K. Cascade Mountain Tech does not indicate which grade their standard poles are made from. So, it's hard to compare exactly.

I've put several hundred miles on the 3k version so far and have not had any issues. But, the finish on the lowest shaft is getting quite scraped up. These scratches when deep enough will weaken the CF. Luckily CMT does sell replacement shafts, something I appreciate as I have worn out tips on other poles and had to simply throw them away.  

The most notable difference is the rattle and shock of the 3k compared to the other models. The aluminum model has substantial shock that reverberates up the pole and makes a "twoooing" noise on hard ground. It's easy to demonstrate the shock and noise by simply hitting the pole on the ground. The aluminum version transfers a lot of shock up to handle and after many a mile, particularly on hard ground, you can feel that shock in your hands.

The 3k model absorbs the most amount of shock as you can hear in the video. The 3k version is on par with the shock from other expensive (Leki, Komperdell, and Black Diamond) poles. But the aluminum version, in my opinion, is not acceptable and I would not use them for long distance or hard ground. I only use the aluminum version for hiking in snow where the surface is softer and when post holing the potential to break a pole is higher. 

The cork handle on all versions is about the same. They are mostly comfortable, but there is a ridge between the cork and the plastic cap. This can be a bit uncomfortable on longer days. I tend to adjust my grip throughout the day and/or wear gloves either for sun or cold protection which makes the issue not noticeable. The hole where the pin slides through to hold the strap in can also be rough and could use a cover.

The cork unfortunately does appear to be a thin veneer and I do worry about its longevity, but with a little over two years use, I have only noticed a few nicks and some discoloration. The straps are very basic, but they tighten and loosen well and don't seem to irritate me in any way.

The tips and thread on the lowest shaft are holding up quite well. I don't imagine needing to replace the tips any time soon. And I have yet to lose a snow basket. Although, I do tend to use my cheaper aluminum version in the snow. 

The flick locks hold the poles in place and I have yet to have them slip when in use. I do like the tool-less tightening bolt mechanism on the locks as they are easily adjustable. 

Overall, the 3k version is enough of an upgrade over the standard CF version that it justifies the small price difference, particularly when on sale. CMT is still what I consider a lower tier pole being both heavier and less comfortable than my more expensive poles. But, for the price, they are quite acceptable and should give years of service when treated properly. If CMT could smooth out the handle and reduce the vibration further, these would be a 5-star pole.

Background

Been using trekking poles for over 10 years and tried numerous brands.