Tip for pushing down tent stakes

[Finch]

Not to sound like a wuss but pushing down tent stakes with your palms can be killer. I've used my boot before or a rock but I had a thought today while setting up my tent for tonight's cold temps. (Gotta test some gear)

Anyway, I used a spent shotty shell to push down the stakes. It bottoms out so just flip it around and push down the remainder of the stake. Also, my particular stake can be pulled up with the brass end of the shell.

I thought I would share. Maybe there is a better way or maybe most people suck it up. A spent shell weighs nothing and I'll keep it in my stake or pole baggy.

 

[Kevin Dill]

I want to camp where you camp.

Seems like most of my sites are so difficult I have to pound stakes and hope they don't get damaged in the process. The thought of being able to step, push or shove them in is like a happy dream. That shotshell trick is a good one. My tipi stakes go in flush to the ground, so figure I'll still be pounding, thumping, frowning and growling. Thanks for making me think.....I should be camping somewhere else!

 

[NJDiverDan]

If I need to push in a stake by hand I just use another stake sideways across the top like a T. Works until the last stake.

 

[Finch]

Kevin, well that was my yard after all. Not quite sure what I'll encounter during my hunt this year.

I never thought of the Dan, good idea. It will also pull up a stake. I played with the idea after seeing your post.

 

[blgoode]

I use the cap of a water bottle. Works good so far.