Product manufacture has changed a great deal since Wilmont Stevens, Buckingham's founder, made his first climber in 1896. Materials are better and production processes have improved, but there's still no substitute for the hands-on attention of trained, skilled craftsmen. All of Buckingham's climbers and gaffs are inspected throughout the manufacturing process. In addition, samples from each lot are tested to destruction.

Buckingham believes that proper fit and comfort affect a person's ability to climb. An ill-fitting climber distracts the wearer. This is why they offer the industry's widest choice of climber styles and features. Please see the Climber's Choice catalog for a full listing of their climbers and accessories.

Climber Styles

Pole climbers should not be used to climb trees.

Permanent and Replaceable CCA Gaff Pole Climbers

C.C.A. Gaff­The utility pole widely accepted and used today is salt treated. Through the years, linemen have had difficulty climbing salt treated poles because conventional gaffs did not work efficiently.

Buckingham Manufacturing in conjunction with Koppers, has developed a new gaff to make gaff penetration easier. The method in which the gaff penetrates is through expansion and relief, much like a serrated knife. The C.C.A. gaff is available in permanent and replaceable styles.

Permanent and Replaceable Gaff Tree Climbers for the Arborist

Tree climbers have relatively long gaffs (approximately 3-1/2 inches for permanent gaff type, 2-1/2 inches for replaceable gaff type) so they can penetrate tree bark and reach solid trunk wood for a secure foot hold.

CLIMBER OPTIONS

TWISTED SHANK ­ Contoured shank that fits to the shape of your leg and increases comfort.

LENGTH

Adjustable ­ Sleeves provide adjustable length in 1/2" increments. Range are 15-3/4" to 18-3/4" for the standard length and 18-3/4" to 21-3/4" for long sleeves.
Fixed ­ Length made to order, availability in ring or loop style stirrup. Permanent Gaff style only.

SHANK

Straight ­ Climber is straight from the stirrup to the top of the shank.
Offset ­ Shank is bent left or right to conform with wearer's leg.

GAFFS

Permanent ­ Available in tree or pole gaffs securely fastened to climber.
Replaceable ­ Interchangeability of pole, CCA and tree gaffs.

STIRRUP STYLE

Loops ­ Use of one piece foot strap to secure foot to stirrup.
Rings ­ Use of split ring with two piece foot strap for securing foot.

WIDTH

Narrow Stirrup ­ Provides a snug fit for persons of small stature or with small feet.
Standard Stirrup ­ For the person who wears a normal width shoe.