We have had to replace numerous poles due to Black Bears that roam through the area during the early spring and fall month. They love birdseed and will return time after time to get some. We take the feeders in at night time but the bears are not afraid to stop for a snack during the day. Some just lick out the feeders while others are more impatient and just push the pole over then crush the feeders. Now instead of replacing the whole pole we can just buy a replacement piece. So glad that Duncraft carries these. We are about to buy yet another 14” extension piece. They are strong and sturdy but a 500 pound bear is strong and these poles are nothing for them to bend. We bend the pole back up sometimes but it is never the same. Once they go into hibernation we will replace the bent section. No sense in doing it until then.