Field repairs

A temporary wooden tent-pole splint

An improvised external splint when a repair sleeve is unavailable, followed by proper replacement.

Temporary repair20 min

Approximate hands-on time; drying time is additional

Project overview: A temporary wooden tent-pole splint4
Schematic illustration, not a photograph or a load-rated construction drawing.

Make it step by step

  1. Step 01

    Unload the tent and remove the damaged pole first. Watch for metal edges or fibreglass splinters; do not force heavily cracked sections straight.

    Step 1: Unload the tent and remove the damaged pole first. Watch for metal edges or fibreglass splinters; do not force heavily cracked sections straight.1
  2. Step 02

    Align the parts, cover sharp edges and smooth the splint. Prefer the manufacturer's repair sleeve when available.

    Step 2: Align the parts, cover sharp edges and smooth the splint. Prefer the manufacturer's repair sleeve when available.2≥10 cm≥10 cm
  3. Step 03

    Centre the wood across the break with generous overlap. Tape firmly at both splint ends and beside the break, not onto exposed sharp edges.

    Step 3: Centre the wood across the break with generous overlap. Tape firmly at both splint ends and beside the break, not onto exposed sharp edges.3
  4. Step 04

    Test gently before installation. Stop if it twists or slides, reduce canopy tension and use another shelter if weather is unsuitable.

    Step 4: Test gently before installation. Stop if it twists or slides, reduce canopy tension and use another shelter if weather is unsuitable.4

Check before use

The break stays aligned, the splint stays put and edges cannot cut the tent sleeve.

Limits of this project

Wood is an untested temporary adaptation, not restored original strength. REI describes sleeves and stake splints, not certification of this wooden version.

Take down and restore

Mark the damaged pole for replacement and pack out every tape scrap.

Practise in an area where building activities are permitted. Bring materials or obtain permission to collect them. Do not cut living trees or dig tent trenches. Take projects apart afterwards.
All lashings and racks here are for light objects, never people, climbing or rescue.

Further reading

References support relevant principles, not certification of these projects or their dimensions. These original practice designs and diagrams have not been field-tested by this website.

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