Scottish Canes

[Tartan Hiker]

Here's an open invitation to all Xmarkers...come hiking with our group in Montreat, NC any time this summer and I'll cut you a walking stick...your choice of sassafras, oak, or maple...Scot free! (can I say that?)

[Southern Breeze]

Here's an open invitation to all Xmarkers...come hiking with our group in Montreat, NC any time this summer and I'll cut you a walking stick...your choice of sassafras, oak, or maple...Scot free! (can I say that?)

Thanks for the invitation.

[davedove]

I've always been a little curious as to why someone would pay for a walking stick unless you don't live near a forest. There are plenty there for free. Let the wood cure and you have a nice stick. When hiking I always look for just the right stick that is comfortable in my hand. Curiously enough I have always looked for what is called a thumbstick in one of the websites.

Although some of the shapes, wood species, etc. may be traditional I would personally steer clear of a cane if it is to be seriously used and not just carried as an accessory. Continual pushing down (leaning) on a cane will eventually bring about lower back pain problems. Better to use a walking stick that would allow you to grab around the stick at just slightly lower than shoulder level. This gives you stability and keeps you upright. If it is intend to be used for protection (mad dogs, wild animals, etc.)the extra length of a staff can be comforting.

Cheers! Bill

I do have walking sticks for hiking. Two in fact, on with a pointed tip for hiking in the woods, and one with a rubber tip for streets and sidewalks.

I am looking around for a fancy walking stick though, not for any practical reason, but more for a costume piece, like a gentleman's cane/stick from the Victorian era. Since I don't need one, this purchase is a ways down on my priority list. I do enjoy checking out the different sites though. This site just seemed WAY too expensive.

[Tullibardine]

The cromach I bought in London 35 years ago cost me ten pounds back then - blackthorn shaft with horn crook - still works for me.

ANYTHING hand crafted from the UK will be pricey - people in the states are spoiled by goods made in sweatshops in China.

[walkerk]

James Smith & Sons?

The cromach I bought in London 35 years ago cost me ten pounds back then - blackthorn shaft with horn crook - still works for me.

ANYTHING hand crafted from the UK will be pricey - people in the states are spoiled by goods made in sweatshops in China.