A Discreet Self-Defense Weapon For The Ages
By Adelia Ladson
The sword cane or swordstick, as it has been called in the past, really became a popular fashion accessory for gentlemen during the 18th and 19th centuries in Europe. This was because it was becoming politically incorrect to carry a sword out in the open. But when you spend all of that time learning how to use a sword, it's kind of difficult to give it up. So, the cleverly hidden blade became the “thing”.
Over the years, as swordsmanship became a dying art and some European countries started restricting them, the sword cane saw a decline in popularity. But with the ever increasing emphasis on personal self-defense, today, these wonderfully handy little items have seen a comeback.
In today's society, discreet self-defense items are a must-have and there are many choices available. Yet, none are so elegant and stylish as the sword cane. While most of the items in the discreet self-defense category are meant to be carefully hidden away on your person, the sword cane can be proudly displayed and admired by your friends without them ever knowing its secret. Unless, of course, you're confronted by a less than savory individual, which then, gives you the opportunity to amaze them with your proficiency in self-defense.
Learning to use the sword cane for self-defense is much like using the traditional defense techniques you would use with a cane or fencing. The French really explored and developed this form of martial arts in Europe with their Canne de Combat discipline. Eventually, it was also codified during the late 1970s as a sport which is still practiced in France. If you can't quite get to France this year, don't worry. There are plenty of tutorials on the internet on cane fighting and fencing which have many of the same moves and techniques or you might just drop into a class.
As the ultimate in functionality goes, the Night Watchman Heavy-Duty Self-Defense Sword Cane is really the best option in a cane sword. Its construction is of black, hard-coated aluminum with a high carbon steel blade that is strong enough to take down an assailant. The heavy-duty fiber-filled nylon handle and thick, removable rubber toe makes it truly a great addition to your personal defense arsenal because it is designed to actually be used as a walking cane. This is an excellent choice for someone who needs a little extra support in walking but wants the security of knowing they won't be defenseless.
Another excellent choice is one of Kit Rae’s Axios Sword Canes. These lovely pieces come in either your choice of a Damascus steel blade or a forged, carbon steel blade. However, the cast metal hilt not only provides a comfortable grip but also is an elegant showpiece. The shaft is made of a sturdy hardwood and also has the rubber end cap for traction on uneven surfaces. Kit Rae has built-in both function and style into his sword canes.
Style, though, is what really made the cane an item to have a couple of centuries go and it still applies, now. People love to complete their outfits or costumes (for the cosplay folks) with these wonderful accessories. But isn’t it even more impressive when you show that yours has a little something extra to it? Designed by world-famous knifemaker, Gil Hibben, the Gil Hibben Old West Custom Sword Cane is a stunning piece that would be the envy of any gentleman stepping out. It’s the painstaking and thoughtful accents like the gold-plated inlay in the handle and the elegant diamond-back filework on the blade that really make this Hibben masterpiece standout. Combine that with a premium, black wooden shaft with a linen Micarta blade collar and a push button blade release and you’ve got the definition of sword cane personified: sleek style and sharp function!
If, however, the sword cane “is not your thing”, there is another wonderful option you should consider – the Black Umbrella Sword. You will reap the same benefits of having a discreet personal defense item in your hand but with the added benefit of protecting you from the elements, as well. Yet, another awesome example of dual purpose design.
