Would the fixed fulcrum handle un-even loads the same way? I understand you can distribute weight on each side but seems like it would be more difficult to load vs a non-fixed fulcrum.
I think the user typically balances uneven loads with their hand slung over one side (ie, carrying the pole front-to-back rather than side-to-side). In this way the flexibility of the original design is useful.
You are correct. Fixed fulcrum, not a good idea. Non-fixed fulcrum, a great idea. The existing design is better on this case.