Bought this with the Tools 50050 Complete Above-Ground Pool Solar Reel System Set, Poles are sold separately so I opted for these 3 inch. I assume I have a 12 mil liner, but all I new it was heavy so I figured I would not, could not go wrong with the 3 inch pipe. Forget the instructions with these, the reels instructions are much better. I gave this 4 stars because it is sturdy, supports my heavy liner and works as it should. Because of the disappointing instructions, plus they should just have sold them together with the reels. Take out the guess work and make it easy for consumers. Other than that it gets a big 4 all day.I bought this pole set as an extension for my old solar reel. The tubes are an exact match in diameter and shape, but these poles are much thinner aluminum than the old ones and can't take much weight without flexing. You know the old saying, "They don't make them like they used to". I only needed them to extend my 18 foot reel to 24 feet for my new pool. They work ok with a little sagging, and saves me $250 for a 24 foot reel.Shipping was quick installation not terribly brutal, very satisfied with my choice in this product. I would surely do business with them again.These bars nest inside each other. They make a strong yet lite bar. Tough enough to hold the self tap screws without stripping. The hardware is all stainless so they will function for years. About three days from order to delivery. No problems at all.Yes, contrary to what is shown on the picture next to the product, you only get the 3 poles !!!!!!!I have not even recieved the bolts and screw to fix it !What am i supposed to do now ??????Works perfectly as intended.Came quick and was what I was looking for