Machine Politics vs Beaver Boys, May 2011. Photo by Bruce Carver
I'm wondering what peoples thoughts are on mallet taper.
I've been playing with as little taper as possible, but I'm wondering if that makes the most sense, or if the taper provides some strength due to its reduced circumference.
Just looking for opinions/theories here! Thanks!
in my opinion, taper is good, but what the hell do i know...
here are threads on the topic:
Pole trimming- what end to you chop?
How to cut ski poles?
i suggest searching and reading what the old timers have already debated and decided. half of the chatter on this site is an echo of conversations past.
Damn it drizz! That shit was from 2009. This is 20 fucking 12 bro. Stop living in the past.
I'm sure its different from pole to pole. The reduced circumference (I think) won't make a difference as long as the material is consistent. However, reduced circumference = more flex.
Tapered tubing "provide a large strength to weight ratio. Material is used only where it is needed. Large diameters are at the highest stressed base and smaller diameters are at the lower stressed top."
AKA Less material = less $$$ to make.
Some people say that the thickness of the metal at the taper is more than the rest of the shaft (the shaft's manufacture involves compressing the same amount of material into a smaller space).
Some people say that the thickness of the metal at the taper is the same as the rest of the shaft (the shaft's manufacture involves rolling the material together with a very slight cone shape at one end and creating a seam).
This information is crucial in working out whether the tapered part of a shaft is strong, or not.
I believe the later is true (and that tapers are not as strong, but allow a shaft to be lighter and whippier as the taper is made from less material than the rest of the shaft).