When you order your Cadi, one of the first choices you’ll face is: which loading pin should I get—Standard, Extended, or XL?
If you’re new to mace training, it might feel like you should “future proof” yourself and grab the biggest one right away. But after years of swinging, testing, and experimenting with all three options, here’s the truth: the right choice depends on your current training, the plates you own, and how you want to load your Cadi.
The Standard Pin (6")
This was the very first loading pin I built for my original Cadi over 3 years ago—and it’s still going strong today. Threads are intact, cap is solid, and I’ve trained with it almost daily.
For most people starting out, the Standard pin is the best choice. Here’s why:
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Works perfectly with 10 lb plates (not too wide for swings)
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Can load up to around 60 lbs, which is plenty for a long time in your mace journey
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Less time threading on and off since the stack is shorter
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Easier to manage when you’re still developing swing mechanics
If you’re tempted to skip straight to a longer pin, remember this: a stack of two plates on an XL leaves a lot of “empty space” you have to thread through every single time. That gets old, fast.
The Extended Pin
If you’re more advanced, the Extended pin opens up more loading options—especially if you like using 5s instead of 10s.
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Holds around 10–11 fives, letting you micro-progress weight in smaller jumps
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With 10s, you can stack up to about 90 lbs
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Perfect for lifters who want higher loading potential without going all the way to XL
This pin balances versatility with convenience. You’ll spend a little more time threading, but it gives you a much broader progression range.
The XL Pin
This is the big dog. If you’re chasing heavy swings and want to push the limits, the XL pin is for you.
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Loads up to about 120 lbs with 10s
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Ideal for advanced mace athletes looking for max strength development
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Best paired with multiple pins so you’re not constantly building/rebuilding huge stacks
Keep in mind: the XL is not for everyone. If you’re still learning technique, you’ll be wasting time threading plates on and off. But for seasoned swingers who want to go heavy, it’s the ultimate option.
Why Multiple Pins Are a Game-Changer
Here’s the best-kept secret: owning more than one pin makes training way more efficient.
Instead of stripping plates off one pin every time you change weight, you can pre-load a few different pins and just swap the handle between them. Warm-ups, progressions, and even circuits become faster and smoother. Your threads will also last longer since you’re not constantly spinning plates on and off.
Built to Last
Every CK Maceworks pin is made with 1-inch course threads—the same heavy-duty threading used in industrial applications with shear loads in the thousands of pounds. Translation: they’ll hold up to years of daily training.
My original 6-inch pin is living proof. After 3+ years of constant use, it still locks down tight.
Final Thoughts
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Beginners → go with the Standard pin
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Intermediate → consider the Extended for more flexibility
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Advanced → the XL is your heavy hitter
And if you want the most efficient setup? Grab multiple pins and keep them pre-loaded. It’ll save time, frustration, and extend the life of your gear.
⚒️ Handcrafted in the USA. Built for a lifetime of swings.
👉 Shop the Cadi + Pins here: www.ckmaceworks.com