MSR OverLand 2

Effective and durable pole that is long on feature effectiveness at reasonable price. Indispensable tool on mountain backpacking hikes, I would not go into a mountain backpack expedition without it. Shock absorbing suspension, three-section 7075 T6 aluminum, carbon steel tip, rubber grip, small diameter basket, length 30"-56".

Mail ordered these on closeout based on features/price, basically confident the MSR brand would deliver. Took them into the Guadalupe Mountains in TX/NM for inauguration. Excellent performance. Shock absorbing suspension was firm but effectively easy on the hands, and the dampened poles did not 'buzz'. The grips did not slip. The pole tips showed no real wear after pounding on rocks for several days. Sturdy, did not bend or compress when loaded. Very happy with performance. Solid credit to MSR.

They did not come with pole tip protectors or rubber tips but Komperdell accessory protectors and tips fit. I recommend using protectors on the tips while they are in luggage, the tips are much harder than anything they come up against and will wear luggage, car upholstery, etc.

Weight of 11.3 oz seems heavy compared to newer Overland Carbon at 8.5 oz., but Carbon ones cost more. I would not hesitate to buy another MSR pole in future.