An old stick.

[James T Thomas]

Like I say, I have not handled the CM sticks, but with that weight, they would be capeable of powerful strikes. Maybe more so than compareable wood. -Which, by the way, for those unfamiliar, can be used with deadly results even against the steel blade. Old Musashi did well with his wood impliments.

Speaking of wax wood, AKnativeson, I bought one that was quarterstaff size from CM; I believe it was...anyway, it is more tough than I thought it would be. I tried staining it, but it took the stain unevenly, though it looks alright
just the same.

Your wood finish Micarta sounds good too John S. I know that stuff makes very durable knife handles. I didn't know it was available in larger pieces.
I suppose it would also be expensive.
You would be correct about risking your fingers. It's the timing on when to draw the "hilt" away while the opponent's blade or stick is sliding down.
With the boken with a guard it's not so crucial. But with a jo your reflexes better be tuned! I will have to research Kukishin Ryu -sorry John; I've been away and idle from any sword art for awhile and, I know it is one of the major ones, but have forgotten so much. You know, if you don't use it, you loose it.

 

[p35]

I read an account once by some explorer back in the earlies who watched a group of Masai run down a lion, corner it, and beat it to death with sticks. He was disgusted by seeing a beautiful animal die like that, but impressed by the Masai. They knew whereof they spoke.

 

[meef]

This thread prompted me to go through some things I had put away in a closet years ago. I pulled out a Cold Steel Purple Heart and a Cold Steel Blackthorn walking stick.

Both purchased around 15 or so years ago before Cold Steel gave up on these as economically unfeasible or just plain couldn't get the real deal wood.

Nice, nice sticks.

Thanks for reminding me.....

 

[alaskanativeson]

Speaking of Cold Steel and sticks, here's another reason (for any of you who need to look for one) to dislike CS. A plastic faux blackthorn walking stick. That's just plain wrong.

 

[meef]

As for reasons to dislike Cold Steel - I have a number of various types of their products and have been well satisfied with all of them.

But then, I'm just an ordinary guy who likes getting a good deal for his money - not a knife/stick/whatever snob.

Not that there's anything wrong with that.