Heber
If they work for you then when they do break you'll be willing to spend more. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> I have old Leki avolanche probe adjustable ski poles that I use most every where when I'm skiing or sometimes hiking in steep country like the Sierras where its nice to get some chest muscles involved in the climb to spare my knees. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

When I downhill I ski I use fixed poles - why? They're stronger, more dependale, cheaper <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" /> (garage sales) Fixed poles don't look cute in your little pack though... <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />

Fixed poles CAN be used for a self arrest as can any "heavy" quality aluminum pole, but not UL poles nor carbon. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" /> Even Phat might be better advised to pole vault with fixed poles.

(what was that thread about pole vaulting over cliffs?) <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" />

Someplaces poles leave holes or cause erosion, but on rock they're golden, but you may need a rubber tip. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />

I have used poles as a "long arm" to reach across on some dangerous decents to push against a rock on the other side of a steep crack. Your life depends on that pole in such a case - use a good one.
<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
Jim <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" />