Choosing Your Lineman Spurs

As the demand for lineman increases, the number of brands and manufacturers that produce lineman tools and equipment also increases. And because of this, it can be quite challenging for many, especially beginners and newbies, to find the most appropriate tools for them.

Apparently, one of the most difficult lineman tools to purchase is the lineman spurs. Aside from the increasing number of variations on the market today, spurs (which you may also call as spikes or gaffs) are quite tricky. And purchasing the wrong kind for you may cause accidents as you climb poles.

Essentially, lineman spurs are one of the most important aspects of your personal protective equipment. Along with your lineman boots, lanyard, and tool belt, it is the tool that will provide you safety and stability when ascending and descending. Hence, it is only important that you choose carefully and rightly the spurs that will work for you.

Now, there are actually a lot of factors that you must consider first before purchasing your spurs. Nevertheless, you could summarize it into two categories. Once you have regarded these categories, you can easily choose the most appropriate type for you.

Material, Durability, and Weight of The Spurs

The overall weight and durability of a pair of lineman spurs depend largely on the material of the structure. In the recent times, there are over 4 to 5 materials that are normally being used on the spurs. And these are titanium, alloy, steel, and carbon fiber.

If you are looking for a lightweight pair, then spurs that are made out of carbon fiber are the ones you should look for. Apparently, they are the most lightweight types. And most apprentices would prefer this as it can be very helpful in climbing activities. However, these kinds are not very durable since the material is too thin. Hence, it could wear and tear easily.

On the other hand, choosing climbing spurs that are made out of steel are a great option if durability is largely the factor you are considering. But, they are the heaviest types. So, it may take a while before you can get a hold of them as you climb poles.

In between steel and carbon fiber, you would find the alloy and titanium types. And they can be great choices as well.

Length of The Gaff

Gaffs are essential parts of lineman spurs. In actuality, they are the ones responsible for holding your weight as you climb. Accordingly, the length of the gaff plays an important role in this matter.

Short gaffs are naturally great for poles with smaller diameters. And most beginners would choose them since they are easy to manage. However, they do not work effectively with bigger and thicker poles.

As for the long gaffs, they are the effective ones that work well with thicker poles. Moreover, it is seen that experienced lineworkers prefer this length more than the other.

Other Factors To Consider

The other things that you would need to check as well would include the shin pads as they are the ones responsible for the comfortability of the spurs, spikes, straps, cost, and brand.