Let's talk cromachs

[Tobus]

The internet, as usual, contains a lot of conflicting and weird information on the subject of the cromach. So I'd like to pick your collective brains on this. Other threads on this subject have been locked due to age, so I'm starting over.

First, I'm curious as to the history of it. I've read that the traditional cromach as we know it today is a 20th century invention (although certainly based on shepherds' crooks which date back thousands upon thousands of years). I've read that it gained popularity starting with Highland Games organizers, as a symbol of their authority. I've read that they're just fashionable walking sticks. I've also read that they're only appropriate for dressy daywear occasions. I've even seen some web references putting them in the same category as occult paraphernalia. (???)

So what's the real history of the cromach? Heck, for that matter, what's the real definition of a cromach? In other words, what differentiates a cromach from a plain old walking staff? Is there any significance to the carrying/using of one?

When are they appropriate? Conversely, when are they NOT appropriate?

What makes for a good cromach, in terms of make, materials, style, etc.?

I typically see cromachs in the standard crook-shaped variety (either with bone or wood tops). I've also seen 'thumb' style cromachs that have a Y-shaped top. I've seen a few that are just random deer antlers on top too, or ram-horns that twist well beyond a standard hook shape. What other variations are out there?

I saw the following picture in another thread. That's one heck of a staff he's got there! I can't say I've ever seen another kilted gentleman (chief?) with one like that, outside of a Renaissance festival, anyway. Is this traditional?

[auld argonian]

I'm sure that the experts will chime in but I has to speculate that the cromach thing is sort of the same as a lot of other things that designate hierarchy in a tribe.

"All us guys have sticks but you see that guy over there with the really big stick? Okay...he's the head guy....you want something, you go talk to him....he's the chief and we're just the indians."

The b-side would be that the simple having of a stick is just a holdover from when having a stick was a more practical thing. Self-defense/deterrent, pokin' the ground to see if it's safe to walk, keeping your balance on rough terrain or while wading a river, pokin' at inert critters to see if they're dead...the usual.

Best

AA

[NewEnglander]

pokin' at inert critters to see if they're dead...the usual.

I've never considered getting a cromach before, but if it has such handy applications..........

[auld argonian]

I've never considered getting a cromach before, but if it has such handy applications..........

You don't play golf on the same courses that I do...often a five iron is a good substitute for a cromach.

And, Tobus...ooooh...your wife has a destrier? Always wanted one...


Best

AA

[piperdbh]

Self-defense/deterrent, pokin' the ground to see if it's safe to walk, keeping your balance on rough terrain or while wading a river, pokin' at inert critters to see if they're dead...the usual.

Suppose you get attacked while testing the bed of a river in rough terrain and you lose your balance while an inert critter floats past you. Would you then need 5 cromachs?

[auld argonian]

Suppose you get attacked while testing the bed of a river in rough terrain and you lose your balance while an inert critter floats past you. Would you then need 5 cromachs?

Then, my friend, you need the Swiss Army Cromach!

Best

AA

[Slowburn]

Suppose you get attacked while testing the bed of a river in rough terrain and you lose your balance while an inert critter floats past you. Would you then need 5 cromachs?

That's what the new improved Swiss army cromach is for!

[piperdbh]

Then, my friend, you need the Swiss Army Cromach!

Best

AA

...and a piece of rhubarb pie.

[thescot]

I'm pretty sure that the cromach grew out of a standard shepherd's crook, getting fancier and famcier with time. Modern cromachs seem to be mostly for looks although they are very good as walking sticks.

There are few things more useful or more satifying than a good walking stick of any kind. My own favorite is shown here--you can see it pretty well; it's a standard cromach coming to mid-chest:



For hiking or just walking the neighborhood, I use much more rustic sticks, usually a longer one that allows for good balance as well as defense against stray animals, ogres, and miscreants of various stripe. None of them were expensice, but each has its own history, and I love the feel of the wood in my hand.

I also have several "canes" for walking sticks that I use for walking when the old gout or my back is acting up. One is a metal Bridges with a brass handle, several are of wood with the standard Fritz handle; one is an all-wood standard curve and that is quite rustic but functional.

But don't you love that cromach?

[Bugbear]

Post deleted.