I started with an Eberlestock and found just too many things that didn't work well after using it for 4-5 years. I ended up buying both a Kuiu and an Exo, was able to examine them and try them both side by side and sending the Kuiu back was the clear choice. It costs about $40 to send a pack back, but nothing compares to seeing and trying them first hand. When you look at what they cost and how many years you can get out of one, it seems like a pretty good investment to make sure you have the one you want.