Karhu Guide binding discussion

SB....end of discussion.

SB....end of discussion.

Not sure what Pinhead means ???

md20/20- I thought of you guys when I asked for ideas. Thanks for your insight on the drill bit size.
I was thinking of possibly using a helicoil, since in my history 3-pin bindings have a tendency of pulling out on me.
I appreciate the reminder on the rocker pressures acarey, hence another reason for the Helicoil.

Thanks all of the insights on the Switchbacks. The Swichbacks are enticing, but hard to find a deal on those babies. I like the idea of the longer glide in stride, but probably would have to lockdown for sidehilling as md20/20 suggests.
Besides adding additional weight with the Switchback to a light setup that may be compensated by better tourability, I wrestle with idea of a binding on such a large riser over a skinny ski. Kind of like putting a rear spoiler on a lowered, beater Japanese car.

I guess I may not know how much reduction in climbing ability by getting the 195 compared to the 185. I figured that the ski is softer and at my height (6'4) I did not want to be over the top of them that much while skiing down.

Thanks for the insight Gary on the crampons and even the AT setup. Since the skis are relatively worthless on ice (from what I hear) the fixed crampon may be a life saver. But I better pray that the snow softens for the downhill

Just like a teenager, I will bring along a pair of skins in spite of md's thoughts just to do my own analysis of the situation. I realize you guys have lots of experience on these skis, but thanks in advance md for trying to save me from doing something stupid.

Any other insights?
Thanks all for the responses!

I would concur with those who would marginalize this ski for icy skiing and steep skinning.  With that in mind, I bring them out for low angle and soft conditions, but that also means i don't get too excited about climbing wires and a free pivot.  Given the conditions I take the skis out for this allows me to use a straight three pin (and no riser/shim as i really like the feel of boot on ski).

And hey, get used to switchbacking..    

 Given the conditions I take the skis out for this allows me to use a straight three pin (and no riser/shim as i really like the feel of boot on ski).

That was my origional thought, but I was reminded that the binding hits the hill on steeper sections.
Not sure that really makes a huge difference.
Realistically the best way to find out is to use the gear, but I get so analytical before I make binding decisions
Guess I really need to define what use I'm going to use these compared to pulling out my full fledge tele gear/w o1 or Dynafit AT gear.

A problem of riches I tell you!

I think youre having a mid-life identity crisis.
You finally buy a pair of big fat wide boards with rocker and I think you've finally seen the light and now you're going XC touring with fishscales.?

You're very difficult , ski selction wise.

Word is that more makers are looking to jump in on the fishscale bandwagon.  Wouldn't surprise me to soon see some higher performance boards offered this way.  Despite their limitations, it's very pleasant to be able to head up or down, at will, without a fiddle factor.