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Staffs and stick weapons have a timeless appeal — they’re simple, effective, and versatile. From traditional martial arts like bo-jutsu and escrima to practical hiking poles and theatrical props, a well-chosen staff can serve training, fitness, display, or self-defense purposes. If you’re shopping for one, you’ll want a blend of durability, balance, and the right length for your body and use. This guide walks you through where to buy, what to look for, and how to use and maintain these pieces safely.
The bo staff is a long, two-handed stick traditionally around 5 to 6 feet long. Martial artists use it for striking, blocking, and sweeping techniques. You’ll find bo staffs made of rattan, hardwood, or synthetic materials — each offering different flex and weight characteristics.
Longer and often heavier than a bo, a quarterstaff is usually crafted from hardwood and favored for historical European martial arts practice. Typical lengths range from 6 to 7 feet, which helps with reach and leverage in historical drills and demonstrations.
Shorter, single-handed sticks used in Filipino martial arts typically measure about 24 to 28 inches. They’re lightweight, easy to handle, and commonly sold in pairs. Rattan is the usual material for training sticks due to its forgiving nature and resilience.
These compact, metal sticks extend quickly and are designed for personal protection or professional use. Lengths when extended typically range from 18 to 26 inches. They’re convenient to carry but are subject to legal restrictions in many areas — so check your local laws before purchase.
Walking sticks can be practical hiking aids or decorative pieces, often standing 3 to 5 feet high. Sword canes hide a blade inside the shaft and are primarily collectors’ items; they may be regulated by state or local statutes.
If you want a wide selection, reliable shipping, and solid customer reviews, the US market offers several reputable sellers. Below are notable retailers and marketplaces where you can find quality staffs, practice sticks, and related gear.
Century is a well-known supplier for martial arts schools and individual practitioners. They typically stock bo staffs, escrima sticks, and training gear in a range of materials and lengths. Century is a good place for beginners and schools looking for durable training equipment at reasonable prices.
Tiger Claw focuses on traditional weapons and training gear, including rattan bo staffs, hardwood quarterstaffs, and escrima sticks. They often carry wooden and synthetic options, making them a solid choice for people who want traditional feel or modern durability.
Cold Steel is famous for robust, tactical gear and often offers telescopic batons, heavy-duty training staffs, and sword canes. If you’re looking for rugged metal options or modern tactical designs, Cold Steel is a top brand to check.
Blade HQ primarily focuses on knives but also stocks batons, sword canes, and accessory items. Their catalog is useful for collectors and buyers who want detailed specs and community reviews before committing to a purchase.
Amazon and eBay provide huge marketplaces where you can find nearly every type of staff or stick weapon, from budget-friendly practice sticks to collectible sword canes. The key advantage is volume: many sellers, price points, and buyer reviews that help you compare options quickly.
Big-box stores and sporting retailers often carry basic hiking staffs, collapsible walking sticks, and occasionally practice bo staffs. These stores are convenient for hands-on shopping and last-minute purchases, though specialty stores usually offer broader martial-arts-specific selections.
Choosing the right staff or stick is more than just picking a length or color. Think about how you’ll use it, how big and strong you are, and whether you’ll train with it indoors or outdoors. Consider these factors to narrow your choices.
Rattan gives a lightweight, flexible feel ideal for training and live-action drills. Hardwood (ash, oak) offers stiffness and weight for historical fencing and heavy practice. Metal and synthetic staffs are durable and weather-resistant, but they’re heavier and transmit more impact.
Length affects reach and speed. A general guideline for a bo is to choose a staff roughly equal to your height — a 6-foot person often prefers a 6-foot bo. Quarterstaffs can be a foot or more longer. Weight impacts fatigue and momentum; heavier staffs hit harder but require more strength to control.
Look for a staff with a comfortable grip and a balanced center. Some staffs come with taped or rubberized handles for better control. Balance will determine how the staff feels in your hands and how it responds during spins and strikes.
Beginners should favor lighter, forgiving materials like rattan or padded training staffs. Intermediate and advanced practitioners may choose heavier woods or metal for impact conditioning. For hiking, pick a sturdy, ergonomic walking stick rated for your weight and terrain.
Staffs and stick weapons occupy a gray legal area in some jurisdictions. Owning many types of staffs is legal in most places, but carrying them in public, particularly concealed items like sword canes or telescopic batons, may be regulated or prohibited.
Always check local and state statutes before transporting a weapon in public. Treat a staff like any weapon: train responsibly, store it safely away from children, and never brandish it in public. If you’re unsure about legality, consult local law enforcement or a legal professional.
Keep wooden staffs dry and out of extreme heat. Periodically apply a thin coat of oil or wood conditioner to prevent drying and cracking. Inspect for splinters and sand rough spots smooth, then re-finish if needed.
Wipe down synthetic staffs to remove dirt and sweat. For metal staffs or telescopic batons, keep moving parts clean and lightly oiled to prevent rust and sticking. Store metal staffs in a dry place to reduce corrosion risk.
Store staffs horizontally on racks or vertically in a padded corner to avoid warping. If you have an expensive collector’s piece, consider a display case or padded bag to protect it from bumps and humidity fluctuations.
Learning to handle a staff safely reduces the risk of injury to you and your training partners. Start with basic stances, strikes, and blocks under a qualified instructor — many martial arts schools offer staff or weapons classes.
Wear appropriate protective gear: headgear, forearm guards, and gloves when sparring or practicing contact drills. Use padded training staffs for initial learning to lower the chance of bruising or joint strain.
Once you’ve chosen the right type, customizing can improve comfort and performance. Add grip tape, replace end caps, or affix tassels and leather wraps for historical reenactment. For hiking staffs, consider adding a rubber ferrule or a wrist strap for extra control.
Some retailers offer custom lengths and materials or will add personal touches like engraving or decorative fittings. Specialty martial arts shops and custom makers can craft a staff tailored to your height, weight, and style preferences.
Price varies widely depending on materials, brand, and whether a staff is mass-produced or handcrafted. To get the best value, compare specs (length, material, weight), read buyer reviews, and look for seasonal sales. Big marketplaces like Amazon and eBay frequently list customer reviews and multiple sellers, while specialty retailers may have expert advice and warranty options.
Comparison sites and price trackers can quickly show you where an item is cheapest and whether a retailer is offering a bundled training kit. If you’re buying a higher-end staff, value often comes from craftsmanship and reputable materials rather than the lowest price.
For beginners on a budget, rattan escrima sticks and entry-level bo staffs from martial arts suppliers offer great value and forgiving performance. If you train outdoors or want a long-term piece, hardwood quarterstaffs can be more durable, but expect a heavier feel.
Collectors and display buyers might prefer decorative sword canes or historically accurate quarterstaffs from specialty makers. Tactical users often choose telescopic batons from established brands for durability and reliable extension mechanisms. For hiking and general outdoor use, a well-built walking staff from a sporting goods store will be lightweight, comfortable, and practical.
Measure your height and consider how you plan to use the staff. If possible, test different lengths and weights in person, or buy from retailers with clear return policies and detailed product specs. Read multiple reviews, and prioritize safety gear and training especially if you plan to spar or use the staff for self-defense practice.
Whether you want a training bo, a pair of escrima sticks, a collectible sword cane, or a rugged hiking staff, the right store and the right material will make all the difference. Shop thoughtfully, train responsibly, and you’ll get years of enjoyment and use from a well-chosen staff.
Conclusion: Staffs and stick weapons are accessible, varied tools that fit martial arts, outdoor, and collector communities. US retailers—from specialty martial arts suppliers to large online marketplaces—offer options for every budget and use. Prioritize material, length, and legal safety when you buy, and invest in training so your new staff becomes an asset, not a hazard.
