What is the primary use of climbing gaffs?

Climbing gaffs are primarily used to penetrate wood poles securely, offering a stable and secure grip for the climber. These gaffs, which are typically made of metal, are attached to the climber's boots and designed to dig into the wood of utility poles, providing essential support and stability while working at height.

The design of climbing gaffs ensures they effectively embed into the wood, allowing the climber to ascend safely and maintain a secure position. This function is crucial for electrical workers, as they often need to climb poles to install or maintain electrical lines. Using gaffs correctly enhances safety by preventing slipping and falls, which can lead to serious injury.

While traction on metal surfaces is important for safety, climbing gaffs are specifically engineered for wood, making their primary function align with secure penetration into wooden poles.