readin flex numbers

[RoySloppy]

umm i reading all this talk on flex numbers im not so sure how to read them theres a bunch of numbers on the top of my spirit im not sure what they mean i know the middle bunch means the length and weight but theres two other rows and i dont know what they mean so could someone please explain them to me gracias

[PVJunkie]

The flex # is the 3 digit # with a decimal point (17.5). The rest of the #'s are the date it was made 11 15 98 (month day year). As for the rest read the novel of posts on the topic and be as lost as the rest of us. The flex # is the actual measure used to determine the wt rating of the pole.

[Bruce Caldwell]

The flex number is the relative stiffness of the pole. This number compared to the same brand gives you a stiffness reference between the poles within a brand. Some are in Metric and some in Imperial. A manufacturer uses this number to insure that you are on a pole that is designed and tested to hold the weight of the vaulter, the momentum and other variables based on the design of the pole.
Most companies maintain this number to insure consistency through their line
All brands are made differently and as a result you should not compare flexes to others, but only model numbers as a comparable.

ROY FLEX
You can award a pole with your own flex number.
Start by setting up two sawhorses. Make the ends that the pole rest on as less friction as possible. Use a 50 lbs weight set the pole with one foot hanging off the butt end and the other sawhorse at your grip. Set 50 lbs weight in the middle.
Measure the deflection in inches.
Start with your stiffest pole award it a name like big dog and mark it with the ROY FLEX NUMBER in inches with 10ths of an inch.

Then measure the others in relationship to that one in inches. This will give you a relative stiffness for your poles. You can “ as a Rule of Thumbâ€Â