I do have one of the Irish blackthorn sticks, and usually carry with me when I go walking. I really don't think it's meant to be a cane, but a weapon. It's hard as a rock, and the knobby end would definitely deal somebody - or some obnoxious dog - a shrewd knock...!
Brian
"They who can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety." ~ Benjamin Franklin