I started backpacking in the early 70's.Most hikers just used a single pole or a tree branch or small sapling usually with a story to go with it.For about 25 years I did this also.Well now I got fancy and got a Leki Wanderfreund single pole.I need to have one hand free to ,swat gnats,wipe nose,scratch balls and to help stop a fall if it does happen.In really rocky,rough trail,which is what a lot of the AT is,a second pole just gets in the way.The 2 pole method works best for the outfitters who are making a lot of $$ selling them...