I think a blackthorn stick makes a great kilt accessory. Does anyone else agree? Yes, I know a cromach is a more traditional Scottish walking stick and blackthorns are more associated with the Irish, but I think a blackthorn is a bit more suitable for the city. I also am a supporter of not only THCD, but also Irish kilts


For those who don't know, the blackthorn has been used by the Irish not only as a walking stick, but also as a weapon (aka shillelagh) for ages. There are even some surviving or recreated martial arts called bataireacht or stick fighting, click for a link with more info. I've had the pleasure (and pain!) of training with Glen Doyle in his family style.

Anyway, there are a few companies online that offer what I think are some pretty sweet, traditional, "Donnybrook" worthy sticks.

Olde Shillelagh Stick Makers has a wide range of options, including decorative and fighting sticks:
http://misticshillelagh.tripod.com/

There is an eBay seller by the name of purplemrsmog who sometimes has really nice, natural, oil-treated blackthorns:
http://myworld.ebay.ca/purplemrsmog/

Last, but definitely not least, is Nollaig Mac Aodha. He's a martial artist and is a newer stick maker who has been doing some really fine work. His facebook page is private, so you'd have to ask to join...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/143811695634371/

Quote Originally Posted by Dale Seago View Post
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I'd love to find a really good stout blackthorn.
Given your proclivity for the martial, I'd expect you might want something special in a blackthorn. Perhaps one with an oil finish, rather than lacquer, because it is more durable -- though less shiny? And one without thorns on the shaft, plus a decent sized knob on top?

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And now for some pics. I've only got one online and my blackthorns are back in Canada. Does anyone else have kilt + blackthorn pics?