Replacing my BD Alpine Carbon Corks

Leki

I’ve been using the Locus Gear C3’s since 2013.  I’ve replaced the tips (with BD tips since Locus Gear doesn’t sell replacements) multiple times, I’ve replaced a broken strap on one of them with cordage, and they are starting to look really rough, but they’ve been pretty bombproof and weigh under 11oz.  Before the Locus Gear, I had used Gossamer Gear, Komperdell, and Black Diamond poles.

They used to make a foam grip, my first pair of BDs. Thrashed the living daylights out of them, never broke but the straps frayed and a flick lock finally broke. Everyone back then demanded cork so BD changed.

My new pair that I’ve had for years has much better straps and much better designed flick locks. But as you say they also have cork. I wouldn’t be without them. I like the cork but had no qualms with the foam and really liked them too. I’ve tried other makes and models but none were as close to hiking pole perfection in my own experience. Good luck. I did go into the garage and found the foam grip pole that didn’t have the broken flick lock but didn’t come across the other. Didn’t know if they could help you in some way but again the strap is in bad shape on the one I did find.

I’ve been using the Locus Gear C3’s since 2013.

I’ve had mine almost as long.  I love them.

Locus sells a CP3 currently. Does anyone know if that is  the same thing as the C3 or is it a different model? I suspect C3 is a typo.

I suspect C3 is a typo.

Yes, I believe that is correct.  At least mine are CP3s, if any C3s ever existed.

Correct, C3 was a typo.  They are the CP3’s.

Thanks, fellas.

I make my own, but in your shoes, I wound consider the Diorite carbon poles. https://dioritegear.com/collections/all/products/diorite-telescopic-carbon-fiber-trekking-poles-eva-foam

The Locus Gear CP3, while a nice superlight pole, is not as burly as the Black Diamond Carbon Cork poles. 18/61/14 vs 16/14/12 for starters.

Interesting. Those look great actually. I’ve not heard of the brand before and don’t know anything about their reputation which concerns me a little on a $180 purchase. I’ll think about it. Thanks, Eric!

edit: Ok I realize now that it is the same company as CNOC and they seem solid. I like the company values and commitment to repairability.

Matthew, Diorite is actually not a new brand, only a new name. Diorite is a CNOC brand, and the Diorite poles are totally compatible with all CNOC parts. CNOC just decided to launch a specific brand for their US-made trekking poles. They are indeed very strong poles, similar to BD. I think they offer cork and foam handles, but double check to be sure.