Load release means for telescopic props

A load release device for a telescopic prop, the load release device comprising:

• an inner member with at least one threaded portion, said threaded portion comprising a helix angle A;
• a striking collar with a threaded internal bore configured to threadedly engage with the threaded portion of the inner member through a thread interface, said threaded bore also comprising the helix angle A, wherein the striking collar is configured to rotate relative to the inner member during striking;
• and
• a locking means to releasably secure said striking collar at a location along said inner member,
• whereby the helix angle A is substantially equal to a critical helix angle A1 such that, when the locking means is released, substantially no external torque is required to be applied to the striking collar to have the striking collar rotate relative to the inner member during striking.