Its 11:15pm in the heart of Los Angeles. My 13 year old Blue Heeler "Ender" gives me a sharp bark, His way of indicating that its time for a bathroom walk. Being as old as he is... I can't leave anything to chance lest I'm on carpet clean up duty in the morning. I put on my shoes and choose a weapon... As a 30 year practitioner of the Martial Arts and the son of a Green Beret, my weapon of choice?
Walking Stick.
Now before you get all Troll Face hear me out. I own a slew of knives and other weapons... Often I carry knives as side arms... but my go to more times than not? Is a walking stick... And here is why.
1. They're Non Threatening.
You ever get the evil eye for carrying your weapon? Most times people like us will welcome the awkward gaze of our sheathed fixed blade, or the subtle but noticeable shift in body language that comes with the recognition of a concealed carry. But we also know that sometimes... That's just a hassle. Nobody blinks twice at a walking stick... No debates over "Do you REALLY need that" or "What are you so 'afraid' of?" to have to deal with. They're great when you know you're going to be hanging out with the type of crowd that for some reason equates a person with a healthy respect for the individual responsibility to protect themselves with the size of their manhood.
You know the type... They're usually Fashionistas wearing Skinny Jeans and are Growing a mustache ironically... Which leads me to my next point....
2. They're Fashionable.
I have a walking stick for every occasion... from Wool sweater and Scally hat (Irish Blackthorn) to White Linen Suit and Tie (Aluminum Headed City Stick). And you know what? I look damn sexy. I was at the Capital Theater in SLC Utah for the showing of "Wicked" with a STUNNING girl on my arm... But my trusty cane was center stage. Never have I gotten more compliments on something that can be so violent. But maybe... that's its allure.
3. You can take them literally ANYWHERE.
Good luck taking your concealed carry to pick up your passport at the Federal Building. Ever forget your Folder in a pocket of your carry on at the Airport? How'd that go? My Dragon Headed Walking Stick however seems a fine accompaniment to my carry on luggage, Check out the video below and tell me how this guy isn't a Good friend in a Bad Situation... You can go ahead a Hashtag the word "Jealous" in the comments below.
4. You want fast deployment? I got the Doc Holiday of Self Defense tools.
Nothing beats a weapon already in your hand. Knife Manufacturers spend years designing Folding Blades that are fast to open from the pocket. And Quick Drawing a holstered weapon is an art form in and of itself worth studying... But the time it takes for you to pullout your weapon is likely the same time mine has already sprung into action.
You know what makes a weapon hard to use? A Shillelagh to the face.
5. They're Unassuming.
Usually, someone walking with the assistance of a cane indicates some kind of injury or disability. I like to think that would be muggers avoid targets of this nature... And if thats the case? Problem solved without a conflict. If that's NOT the case... well then you're damn sure they ain't expecting much of a fight. A good cup check with the Ten Shin Walking Stick serves them right.
I wonder how "Gimme your Wallet." sounds in falsetto.
In Conclusion...
Its worthy to note I'm not saying a walking stick is the End All, Be All weapon. Nor am I trying to make a case that a Cane can beat a Gun or Knife or any other weapon in combat. Regardless I'm sure the comments section will be riddled with "I'd Just Shoot em" Trolls and that's fine. All I'm saying is that when you factor in Convenience, Accessibility, Legality, Practicality, Price and everything else... You gotta show some walking stick love.
And before you flame me... Remember... I'm the Steelfist Ammy Welter Weight Champion whose every day carry is a 7.5 inch San Mai Magnum Tanto. We're on the same side here!
You can Follow me on Instagram >>HERE<< and Facebook >>HERE<< for more Fun!
Mike O'Laskey is a Welterweight Champion MMA fighter and Owner of O'Laskey Martial Arts in Burbank, CA.
www.olaskeyma.com
1312 W. Magnolia Blvd
Burbank Ca
91506
818-480-7810
olaskeyma@gmail.com
Fantastic article, very thought provoking. I agree 100% on this.
ReplyDeleteFantastic article, very thought provoking. I agree 100% on this.
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