USING AND BUYING A WALKING STICK





A quality made elegant walking stick actually becomes a therapeutic comforting companion and the use is only limited by the man, woman's, or child's imagination. I started using one, decades ago after developing a back injury, and after the recovery I continued to use it. It became indispensable. It actually becomes an extension of the person and develops into a true friend over time, whether you are strolling in a town or hiking in remote areas. The sticks have many, many uses. They can be used as a support while walking on uneven ground, loose gravel, hills, ice, snow, and sand. They can be used to fetch things overhead, move objects on the ground, move brush out of the way, poke around in the brush without being bitten, etc. They also can be used as a handy weapon for protection from dogs and other animals. When you use one, you will find it is a utilitarian companion, conversation piece and useful for just about any activity you are engaged in. Rock hunting, hunting, fishing, walking, shopping, hiking, camping, bird watching, photography, genealogy field work, cemetery research, shell collecting, metal detecting treasure searches, dog training, to just name a few. They take stress off the back, hips, knees, and ankles. Many people have several walking sticks, in different styles, for specific uses. They make very good gifts that can provide a lifetime of pleasant use and become a family heirloom.

The size of the walking stick needed depends on several factors including, who will be using it, the person's height, the activity, and the environment.
If a stronger person will be using it, then a heavier walking stick can be carried. Generally a walking stick should be at least 1/2 the height of the user. Walking sticks used mostly outdoors should have a handle for comfort and use as a "snatching" device for items above. It should be about shoulder high for help in going up and down hills. If used in a sandy, or soft dirt environment then the type with 2 feet will provide more stability. If primarily used indoors then a single walking stick with a rubber tip will provide a more secure walking aid. The rubber tips can be purchased from us and we have a good selection.

Mesquite is a hardy attractive wood but does contain a lot of twists and branches. A perfectly straight walking stick is the exception and part of the mesquite's beauty is in the twisted, bent, and knotty appearance.