When you’re camping, the reliability of basic equipment takes on significant added importance. That’s because if something fails, you are miles away from a supply store where you can get replacement gear.
One item that too many campers take for granted is buckles. They have the important job of securing and adjusting the most frequently used implements of camping, such as backpacks and shelter components. It’s also a matter of safety. The latter is even more important in extreme outdoor activities, such as rock climbing, mountain biking, and deep wilderness camping.
Here are some key factors in choosing buckles that will hold up during your outdoor adventures.
Consider the Materials
Buckles for camping equipment come in three broad categories in terms of materials: metals, plastics, and composite materials. The top products in plastics include:
- Nylon – Lightweight and durable
- Acetal – Strong and temperature resistant
- POM (polyoxymethylene) and PVC – Lighter weight but crack-resistant
- ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) – Known for strength, impact resistance, and durability.
Metals
- Stainless steel
- Aluminum
- Titanium
- Magnesium alloy
The latter two metals are by far the most expensive, but you get what you pay for. Buckles made from titanium or magnesium are extremely strong and have excellent strength-to-weight ratios.
Composite
This includes buckles made from carbon fiber or other resins that offer lightweight combined with incredible reliability and strength.
Which Material is Best for Camping Buckles?
This is a debate that rages across thousands of pages on camping enthusiast forums. Opinions vary widely. However, one of the most popular types of buckles in terms of material is high-grade aluminum, constructed with elements of brass and stainless steel components.
For buckles of equal strength and value to metal, many prefer composite materials, such as carbon fiber. They are lighter than metal but just as strong or stronger than metal. The downside is that they are very expensive.
Note that several types of plastic buckles, especially acetal and polymer models, are extremely popular. They are strong, lighter than metal, less expensive, yet they get the job done with high reliability. Plastic also does not rust like metal and is nonconductive.
Check for Weather and Temperature Resistance
Campers need buckles that withstand getting wet and dirty while remaining functional. In this case, plastics and composites have an edge because they don’t rust and are less likely to get clogged with sand, mud, and other environmental substances.
Think About Ease of Use
The best buckles are easy to secure and easy to undue. One-handed operation is a major plus. To provide this benefit, manufacturers have invented an array of fastening configurations, from double-sided snaps to center snaps and more. Much will depend on the individual preference of the user.
It’s true that some seasoned campers still prefer the traditional strap with holes that accept the insertion of a prong (or pin) – like a traditional buckle for a clothing belt. These are “two-hands required” buckles, however, and can be less efficient and convenient for campers
The subject of camping buckles is surprisingly complicated and an area where an extremely wide range of models and configurations are available. In your search for the perfect camping buckle, you will find an embarrassment of riches from which to choose.
