Hello Wayne,

Well, multiple reasons for this choice:

1. Aluminum corrodes.
2. Graphite flexes to fit the curve.
3. Strength to weight ratio.
4. Aluminum is bulkier. I can use a much smaller diameter graphite tube.
5. Graphite will not kink or dent under stress like aluminum will. (of course it has its limits and will break, but not as easily as aluminum will bend or dent.)

Let me know if you disagree, this is an experimental thing. That was the reason for my question. I want to be sure that I order a size that will allow enough bend to bend around the curve of the sheer, but not to allow too much flex. I used a fishing pole as comparison, and it seems even .5" graphite tube will flex well, and still remain quite rigid. My thoughts are that with graphite tube once broken down I will have a very compact and lightweight package, and won't have to worry quite as much about the tubes being damaged in shipping. This will probably be shipped a lot and/or checked as baggage. The light weight is more than just for ease of carrying, it's also cheaper to ship, especially internationally where shipping rates are higher per lb.

Thanks,
Malcolm