I think thast 3kg for a small pole is too heavy as in overengineered as you said Luke.
Bit of old background. Originally the MOD approached Excel industries to design them a light radio mast for use on Landrovers and in tanks and the telescopic carbon fibre pole was born. Ionics got the UK rights.
There must be a fishing tackle shop that has these poles/ different trade so rights would not apply as far as i am aware, next time i am in town I will pop in the local shop as ask if they can get them, worth a try I guess.