aluminum tube

[trucker n]

that's too small

[sparkycuda]

What size tube do you need? http://specialshapes.com is a division of K&S that has many more products and sizes than sold at hobby shops. Might try there to see if they have what you need. Also, I have used http://onlinemetals.com for uncommon sizes and shapes. They specialize in small volume orders.

Ken

[kaptain Jack]

Try luggage stores, some small cases have telescopic retracting handles, most are square (I used one on my wrecker build) but you might be able to score a round one as well.

[arf1201]

You might try a fishing rod holder, I have found different sizes and weights of telescopic rods.

[JAMMER]

http://hobbymetalkits.com/ here is a place were I found some telescoping material best to call and tell him what your looking for I met him at the York PA meet. Ed