Image: AudioQuest CF-BFA's (and included hex-head wrench)
As other inmates mentioned, and by what you seem to describe, the "little straight metal "poles"" would be a BFA connector which plugs into binding post banana plug entry holes in the same manner as a normal banana plug does. A BFA connector is in fact a split hollow tube, while a typical banana plug features spring leaf contacts. Many folks (and I agree) find a hollow tube BFA connector to sound (and fit) far better than a spring leaf banana plug does. A high quality make/model BFA connector can be considered a viable option vs.a spade connector if use of a spade is problematic within a system, while typical spring leaf banana plugs sound (and fit) sub par and are simply an unacceptable option, IME.
I don't understand why you had a hard time plugging and unplugging BFA connectors vs. spring leaf banana plugs. Perhaps they were cheap make/model BFA connectors that were too stiff. I much enjoy AudioQuest CF-BFA connectors (one piece beryllium copper contact design) placed within a second system -- the CF-BFA provides a firm yet easy fit, IME. The solderless, crimp-free termination design is very easy to work with, as well.
