Pros: Blade Material, Materials, Usable
Cons: Overall Quality
A Gentleman's Trump Card!
As a person with walking disabilities, a cane or walking stick is a daily accessory of life. Unfortunately, many canes are unattractive, useless as a defensive measure or both. Cold steel has solved both these problems with this item. As a cane, it is VERY slim and elegant and looks to be to fragile as a decent walking aid. After using it for a few days, I was proven wrong. It supports my bulk nicely when I need it and is a joy to carry. Surprisingly strong, It is light in weight and the rubber tip give secure purchase on pavement and smooth services. When it arrived, I thought the grip handle would be much too small. After only a few minutes of use I could see why this design was used for so long. My only complaint was the "flashing" left from the plastic casting process that left a sharp ridge on the top and bottom. Some careful scraping with the edge of a very sharp knife took care of that problem in less then five minutes. After this was done, I found the grip to be very comfortable and useful. With a quick, sharp yank, the spike came free from the shaft with an audible "POP" sound. Without the need of a button release or threads, the 18" spike is ready for action. There is no edge, only a very sharp tip that can pierce very deeply through a variety of materials. It is also strong enough to deflect a blow from a knife or club without bending or breaking. Also, like a rapier, it is lightning quick on the attack and defense. The shaft, while hollow, also seems to be very strong and tough. One could deliver a rather painful strike with the head or the body of the shaft without even drawing the spike without damaging the cane. Without showing it's nasty side, most folks would only think of it as a simple gentleman's walking stick. Do check your state and local laws when taking it with you in public. For the asking price and if in the market for a sword cane for defense, this is one that is very hard to beat!