Hello,
I have this idea that has been kicking around in my head for a while and I just can't seem to figure out a way make it work.
The idea, a sectional multi purpose walking/hiking/wading/climbing/survival staff.
That's the basic idea. The final product will be a sectional staff that will have usefull items that could attach to the ends of the sections, there by allowing the sections of the staff to act as handles and minimizing the space thay some items would take in a pack or vehicle.
The items I would like to attach would be, a paddle blade and handles, a shovel and a saw. Additionally a light source, (both battery powered and a torch) different end pieces for walking over different terrain. The problem I need help with is the method of connection. I saw a guy on instrucatables who did something pretty cool with copper slip fittings. I'm thinking that migh not be strong enough for what I want.
I hit on the idea of brass or steel quick disconnect fittings like you have for water hoses or air compressors and such. I think they would probably be strong enough, but two problems, all of the ones I have been able to find, swivel around when connected. This could be pretty unhandy when using a tool like a shovel or saw with it or if you are leaning hard on it and it turns you could fall and fall hard.
So my question is two fold, does anyone know of quick disconnect fittings or something very similar that doesn't rotate? And or: does anyone have a different idea of how to connect the sections of a staff together as well as attaching the tools to them.
I have already decided against a screw based method but if you have a version of that you think is a good idea, I will listen. I've spoken to other people about this and one thing I often hear, is not to try to get too much utility out of one item. I understand that point but this isn't supposed to be a primary but a redundancy and a space saving measure when you need to take hard to lug tools with big handles into the rough and aren't going to be using the hiking staff for hinking while you are using the sections as tool handles.
I have a lot of other ideas for attachments for the sections, but I need a secure method of attaching the sections together and the tools to the sections when in use. Thanks for your you help forum members.