Black Diamond Trekking Pole Instructions

Important Safety Warnings

Trekking poles are designed for hiking and trekking use only. The strength of aluminum and carbon fiber poles can be compromised by dents, gouges, scratches, fractures, and chipping, which may lead to catastrophic structural failure. If a pole has suffered any impact, inspect it carefully for signs of damage. Lightweight poles are made to be lightweight and will not withstand excessive forces if previously damaged or if forces exceed structural limits. Ultralight carbon fiber poles are more susceptible to damage and require frequent inspection. Failure to follow these warnings can result in catastrophic failure, causing serious injury or death.

Instructions for Use

Keep these instructions for future reference.

FlickLock®

The patented FlickLock is an external camming mechanism that, when closed, squeezes the pole shafts together to form a joint stronger than the tubing itself.

To Open:

1. Hold the pole above the FlickLock to prevent rotation while pushing the cam lever open with your thumb.
2. Adjust the pole to the desired length.
3. Firmly snap the lever closed.

Adjusting FlickLock Tension

The FlickLock requires correct tensioning to perform properly. If the lower section slips, open the lever and tighten the adjustment screw about a quarter to a half turn, or until the mechanism prevents the shaft from slipping when the lever is closed. If the lever becomes too difficult to snap shut, loosen the screw slightly.

Whippet Self-Arrest Attachments

• The Whippet is not an ice axe, nor a substitute for one.
• Do not hold or swing the Whippet like an ice axe. Always hold onto the grip.
• Practice self-arresting to understand its capabilities.
• For self-arrest, hold one hand over the Whippet's pick, with the shaft diagonal across the torso, and one hand holding on near the FlickLock Pro mechanism.
• Avoid self-evisceration when climbing or skiing.

Changing Tips

Most trekking poles come with Carbide Tech Tips installed, and optional Rubber Tech Tips are available. To remove Tech Tips, twist counter-clockwise and unscrew; pliers may be needed. To install new tips, twist them in by hand. Once the wave-shaped bumps contact the waves on the tip, they should twist 3-4 clicks until snug. Rubber tips should bulge slightly when fully tightened. Note: Replace rubber tips when any part of the metal core starts to show. Some models come with traditional Flex Tips. To remove, heat the Flex Tip (submerge in boiling water) and pull off with pliers. Firmly push the new Flex Tip onto the pole tip.

Baskets

To attach a basket: Push the basket and turn clockwise until secured against the upper stop, spinning freely. To remove a basket: Pull the basket and twist counter-clockwise.

Care and Maintenance

Never put oil or silicone on the pole shafts, as this can cause joints to slip during use. If the FlickLock is difficult to open or close, apply a drop of oil on the lever pin and another under the lever where it rotates on the housing.

Cleaning Cork Grips

1. Use fine, waterproof sandpaper and ordinary hand soap.
2. Wet the grip and sand thoroughly.
3. Apply soap to the sandpaper and gently rub the grip.
4. Rinse and let dry.

Inspection and Storage

Before and after each use:

• Make sure nothing is deformed or broken.
• Check that adjustment mechanisms open and close smoothly and are tensioned properly.
• Always remove the lower shafts after use and allow them to dry completely before storage.
• NOTE: Store FlickLock mechanisms with the tension released for long periods.

Replacement Parts

Replacement parts may be obtained from your local Black Diamond dealer or directly from Blackdiamondequipment.com.

Limited Warranty

For one year following purchase, unless otherwise indicated by law, Black Diamond warrants to the original retail buyer only that its products are free from defects in material and workmanship as originally sold. If a defective product is received, return it for replacement subject to the following conditions: The warranty does not cover products showing normal wear and tear, or products that have been used or maintained improperly, modified, or altered, or damaged in any manner.

Pole Attachment Compatibility