The stability of a tripod when used with surveying equipment is an important factor in establishing the accuracy of your measurements same implies with prisms. The stability of the prism poles and tripods are partly somewhat the responsibility of the tips, they establish its firmness into the ground or will create a solid grip on concrete or slippery surfaces.
The tips get chafed after long use and need replacement every now and then, an inexpensive way to go about it, is this AdirPro Point for Tripod and Prism Poles. Manufactured with Hardened steel, with a 3/8 x 11” male stud it is compatible with most tripods and prism poles, and will last its monetary worth, giving you the stability and firmness your equipment necessitate.