If I was successful enough to own my own helicopter, I think I could get away with it. Somehow, working at the post office, I think people would just look at me weird.
General Douglas McArthur used a cane as a fashion accessory until a young boy sent him a letter during WWII asking if he needed it because he was feeble. He promptly ditched the cane and never used one again.
I asked my great grandfather the same question (whether he was feeble) when I saw him, at 98 with his walking stick. The next day, his walking stick was gone.
@_nenju No, General MacArthur was also being considered as a possible candidate for President. It was more of a PR consideration, he didn't want anyone to not think he was strong and in good physical condition.
They became fashionable but in the UK their main purpose was actually mainly for the same reason old people still use them. If you've ever been in the UK and walked on wet Yorkstone paving in leather soles you'll see why they needed a cane, it's like walking on ice. Before WWII almost all the paving in London was York Stone or wood block. I know two people who have broken bones wearing leather soled shoes on wet Yorkstone pavements in London. After the war a lot of the Yorkstone was replaced with cement paving which doesn't get the same greasy/slippy finish when wet, plus rubber soled walking shoes became more common.
As a female who loves my pockets I feel the purse has a similar pourpose. You you carry your purse you don't need to carry groceries or items. Or if your hubby carries your purse it is a signal that he is taken to any other women around.
I use a cane because of chronic pain. I don't like modern medical canes because they are flimsy. I've had one fold on me and it left me stranded. So now I make my own canes out of exotic hard words. They are all gorgeous and people stop me all the time to ask me about them.
I am a lady, and I like to use a walking stick when on uneven ground. I also like to carry one when walking at night, as a defensive weapon. I have trained in stick fighting; short and long. When walking to church or another more formal setting, I use an elegant one. I also have everyday sticks and hiking sticks.
so we XC ski, so learned to bear down on the strap with the "karate chop" part of the hand -- then only to thumb & forefinger hold the pole top; the pinky guides the XC or Trekking Pole tip to be behind your aft foot heel plus as close to behind your rear as possible, to propel you forward It also takes weight off your kees & hips !!
My mom has her father's custom cane he used in his later years. Neither her nor I care for it as a mobility aid as it is very much the wrong size and shape, but as an accessory it is pretty cool. Ironically Gido (Grandfather in Ukrainian) was much larger than I am but I find his cane too small
I have my Dads walking cane hand carved by my aunt in 1944 in Germany It was passed on to me 2 years ago when he died. I don't use that cane it's a bit short for me and it is very fragile.
I had an long umbrella with a cane-like handle. I loved walking with it, it was perfect to walk with a perfect excuse to have a "cane" even as a fit 26yo guy.
When I was child all umbrellas were huge, either with a hook or knob handle and use them like staves. Sometimes I bring the more "antique" umbrellas we still have that have heavy wooden handles. I think they'd pack a punch when swung and they are still sturdy for stabbing.
I got stranded in Bath, missing the last bus to the Park and Ride. I'd a very painful hip problem and my phone was dead, so I couldn't call a taxi. I climbed Lansdown - a good few miles - but my trusty umbrella saw me through once I got in the rhythm.
On sword canes, it should be noted that even the "well made" ones weren't particularly good as weapons or as canes. The thinness of the blades in them made them prone to breaking, while hollowing out the cane to accommodate the blade made it weaker. It was also often difficult to deploy the blade when attacked due to how tightly the two pieces had to fit together compared to a normal sword/scabbard. Many newspaper accounts from the period that describe incidents where they were used even mention those using them being injured when the blades snapped or being forced to simply defend themself as they would with any other cane when they couldn't draw the sword.
@@moorshound3243 Aside from newspaper accounts of the period (which I mentioned in my OP), I've had the opportunity to handle both historical and modern sword canes on multiple occasions.
Gentleman’s Gazette: “Why did men stop carrying canes?” Kirby Allison: “Here is my latest bespoke cane from this master craftsman in London, an absolute essential for the proper gentleman.”
Growing up on a dairy farm ,canes were a common sight, used to prod cows and young heifers who would get their shoulder into you and pin you against a stall or another critter, it was a fashion accessory for folks with dirty boots.
I wear a black cape I inherited from my great grandfather during the winter months. Like the comment above me, be the change you want to see in the world. Start wearing it, and sooner or later you will see people using it as well.
most if not all custom cues can be used as a weapon, the weighted back end piece consists of lead weights set to the user's preference. [similar I believe to the older police force Billy club]
If I remember correctly, the aristocratic men were hilariously constantly killing one another off dueling over petty nonsense, so the king finally banned it outright.
@@themoderndandy713: Not really. It was french revolution of 1789 and the napoleonic wars which caused the change. It was in those days seen unnecessary for civilians to carry weapons, when regular police forces had been created. Those policeforces had been more a paramilitary Gendarmerie than a civilian police like London Metropolitan Police of about 1830. Weapons had not been forbidden, only open carry of defence weapons. So smallsword was replaced by swordcane, and saddle holster pistol by belt or pocket pistols.
I occasionally use one for medical purposes... and yea I never would consider someone rocking one as an accessory mocking me provided that they were not otherwise doing such. I can't speak for all people who use mobility aids but most I have spoken with are not offended by the thought of someone carrying one as part of an ensemble... if anything more people who use them by choice rather than exclusively as a mobility aid reduces the stigma of using a cane.
@@klingoncowboy4 I started using a cane about 10 years ago do to a back injury that causes me to drag my left toes. Being a wood carver i have since gotten into carving decorative wooden canes I have several differant canes but tend to use a favourite fitted to my left hand This cane has wild life heads carved on it. We have a berry bush here in western Canada called saskatoon berries. they're similar to blue berries. The wood stalks have mild bends in them but the wood is exremely hard. This is my favourite carving wood.
I totally agree. Even before I had medical issues crop up where I would need to carry a cane for my bad days, I still carried a cane or walking staff with me due to their multifunctional usages. People even have gifted me canes and staves, so now I have an E.D.C. selection and a " snazzy" collection for formal occasions. XD
@@markseehawer3762 I am very familiar with Saskatoons, they grow wild all over my property... neat idea for the main volunteer bush in my yard for when it reaches end of life.
I have been carrying a cane for about forty years, and have eight of them by now. Many of them have animal heads. They do help me with stability, but I have also taken advantage of having them as a fashion accessory. They do look quite smart with a suit and are a perfect accent when I am wearing a kilt. Thank you for this video! By the way, I also have many, many hats.
Bravo for the kilt! I too have been using canes with both suits and kilts for a while now, and love the look. My coworkers consider me eccentric, but that's okay with me, because I enjoy how I dress.
@@modwolf55 The one in my profile pic is my clan tartan, Grant Modern. I also have Black Watch, Scottish National, Irish National, and Pride of Scotland. Unfortunately none of them are quality wool kilts, due to my limited budget. Eventually I will bite the bullet and invest in a moderate off-the-rack wool tartan. However, very few people in my remote area know the difference, and I'm the only person who regularly wears a kilt here. I get a lot of compliments in spite of my budget-friendly (cheap) tartans, especially when paired with an Argyle jacket, dress sporran, and classy walking cane. What tartan(s) do you wear?
@@republicjim120 My clan is Strachan, and that kilt is reserved for special occasions, such as Burns night. I also have several of those "universal" tartan kilts. I have a dozen in total. About half of those are tartan utility kilts from UTKilts. They are best for playing with my Celtic rock band as they are washable and I don't have to worry about wear and tear so much. Your Grant Modern is nice one!
I love dress canes! I have a brown one with a brass knob, a black one with a brass knob, a brown one with a toucan handle from Costa Rica, and a cane sword I never carry because it's illegal in public where I live. I took a cane to New York City for the very reason of deterring muggers. I didn't get mugged, so I guess it worked.
I'm 34, tall and do weightlifting but I've always liked having a cane ... simply to have something to do with my hands and because I've always like the Victorian style clothing. So a few years ago I got myself a luxury cane-umbrella combination from one of the very few classic stores in Belgium. I have it with me almost everywhere I go when not working or go grocery shopping. On cold autumn and winter days I also have my fashionable design black and while top hat and a classic style coat. There is just something about that style but indeed, when I intend to do a lot of activities and/or need both my hands I will wear modern day clothes.
I spent 2 years unable to walk upright due to a work accident and I had to use a cane daily to move around any great distance. I ended up making my own out of a crowbar because the medical ones I bought kept bowing and breaking. The amount of positive attention I got from others asking about the cane was a great morale booster at a time that I was seriously worried about my future. I eventually recovered and while I don't carry a cane any more I can respect those that do for either fashion or practical reasons.
I remember my headmaster took a cane off a teacher who *was* using it in their class... As an adult I looked it up and it was banned a year or two later. I'm an elder millennial.
People who get caned are less likely to be spoiled brats if they are intelligent enough to understand why it was done and why discipline is important but if they are on the lower side of the spectrum of intelligence will grow resentment towards it
Whilst my parents (in their early 60s) didn't experience caning, other than the odd teacher who still had one in their classroom as a threat, they did witness other forms of physical assault at school. I think the most common thing was the teacher chucking a piece of chalk or even a board rubber at a student! I looked up when such punishments were actually banned here in the UK and was surprised that it wasn't until 1986 and that was only in state schools! It looks like private schools were banned by country: - England and Wales - 1998 - Scotland - 2000 - Northern Ireland - 2003 I'm not sure how much it actually happened, if at all, in the later years but it's shocking to think that children may have been legally caned in the UK in the 21st century (and I wouldn't be surprised if there are countries who still haven't abolished it).
Great video as ever, Raphael. A lot of what you say is very on-point. I love walking sticks, I do, I really do...but I think the main reasons people don't carry them are... 1. They don't need them for walking anymore. They have cars, they have trams, trains... 2. They're unwieldy. You always have to hold onto it somehow. A couple of months ago, I injured my back, and I had to spend a few days walking around town carrying my walking stick (I have an antique one which is bamboo and silver) and after carrying it for just 2-3 days, I noticed just how much you have to allow for it. Don't forget it somewhere. Don't drop it. Don't let it fall over. How are you going to carry it when you need both hands for something? How are you going to tuck it under your arm or lean it against something? etc etc etc. And that was just after wearing it for a week or less. I can't imagine doing it for YEARS at a time. The moment my back felt better, I put the stick back into my umbrella stand and left it there. I occasionally take it out, if I'm using it as a prop, or for historical demonstration purposes, but otherwise, it stays at home.
Many foot paths and roads where made of Cobble stone and where difficult to walk on, walking stick helped your balance and prevented you from falling. Especially in the open sewers and horse manuer.
I started using a walking stick more generally last year. I live very close to my work, but it's up a large hill so I walk every day. I find it incredibly healpful for stabilizing myself and keeping my pace that I use it whenever I walk. It is wonderful.
I loved the idea of walking sticks ever since seeing the old TV series about Bat Masterson. He actually needed the cane while he was recovering from a gunshot wound in his leg, but he kept it even after he healed, as a "trademark" of sorts like on the show.
You great uncle quit using a cane after he died? I believe that when I pass,that I will also cease making use of a cane...as well as the use of any other material object; BECAUSE I'LL BE DEAD!
Rather than cane I prefer using my umbrella-cane (the non-foldable one). It doesn't feel wrong to use it as a cane when there's a probability of rain, it's not uncommon and of course more usable in case of rain :). I also have a regular cane for some reason and I have to mention, umbrella is way lighter than my steel cane (which is so heavy that I may consider it a blunt weapon, so I just basically never use it). When carrying an umbrella cane, you know, it's very hard not to start using it as a cane. It just feels natural thing to do. My friends also agreed with me in this.
I found this video to be really interesting. I'm 71 years old and walk with a medical cane, a metal shepherd's crook that can be adjusted for the user's height. Between balance issues, weakness, and arthritis, obviously, style is not a consideration. I couldn't get around without it.
I experimented with walking around with a walking stick when I was about 25. I wanted to make sure that I actually walked with the stick, like leaning on it, instead of just randomly flapping it on the ground. As a consequence, a lot of people thought I was handicapped and were extra polite and courteous with me. I felt guilty about that, so I stopped walking with a walking stick. Correction: actually, it was a cane. It was a really cool when I bought at a Russian shop. Or actually, I don't know. It had a silver handle at the top, not just a decorative knob. But it didn't actually hook over. When I walked without leaning on it, some people thought that I had a sword hidden in it. Like, they actually thought I had a weapon with me.
@@gentlemansgazetteRaphael, can you help me? I have a cane that looks like yours at 10:20....it was my late father's....I can't find any information on its provenance....the only "identifier" is "WS" in a circle etched on the "collar" above the knob....Would you know who "WS" is? Thanks!
When the flute was amongst the most popular amateur musical instruments, there were canes that doubled as flutes, so one could play music whenever the impulse hit.
I have found myself investigating shillelaghs recently. No hidden blades or anything, just some good weight. And they look good. In my opinion at least.
Thank you for another fine video essay. Stumbled upon James Smith & Sons many years ago on a trip to London. Purchased a cane there in anticipation of a future sports injury. An elderly salesman in morning coat took the time to go downstairs and install a brass tip by hand. Never had reason to use the cane for its intended purpose until much older. Smith & Sons also sold buggy whips and scepters - do those next! 😆
I love this interesting video about walking canes. I was inspired by my late paternal grandfather who use a few walking canes along with prayer beads. He died in a road accident after returning from the market in 1976. He was 85 at that time. I have a few collections of unique walking sticks that I used to distribute to the needy old folks whenever I meet them. Many people nowadays are shy to use the walking stick.
I have a cane for non-fashion purposes, and I've found it has many uses! Mostly related to reaching things on high shelves and protecting my space in a crowd.
This was a fantastic episode. Personally i am a big fan of a cane or walking stick. It startred with a steel one i made to help with sciatica flare ups and it was so practical i kept using it. It is very handy with small childeren as you can use it to guide them as they walk so you dont end up bent over all the time. Now i use a wooden one i made with a light on top of it. The kids are continuously fascinated by it and always want to play with it. Its alot of fun.
I love my collection of canes, and I wear one at every opportunity. There's a knack to looking elegant with one, but once you've got it, wow. A nice suit and hat are great, but top it off with the right cane and you're on a level of your own.
There are wolverines in Ireland?! And just a whack with a cane could keep them away? Are they the same kind of wolverines that we have here in Canada??? When I was little, I thought that the Tasmanian devil (from Bugs Bunny) lived in my closet and I would imagine him spinning his way out to get me but my real fear was wolverines. Edit: I knew shilleleighs were a stick of some kind, I didn't know that wolverines were involved. Pardon my spelling.
Shillelagh is one of my favourite cantrips in DND, and I had no idea it was more than the name with an etymology and history behind it! Really neat, gonna do a wikipedia binge on it
I have an extensive collection of vintage walking sticks. Sometimes I use my alpine hiking cane while hiking local trails. I also use an English thumb stick for hiking as well. Cheers Ron
My grandad always used a walking cane when hiking or going for a stroll. And he walked a lot. When he wasn't working in the garden or repairing something in the house he was in the forest looking for mushrooms or for cool looking boulders or roots to decorate the garden with. He drove granny nuts because he just couldn't sit down snd relax for more than 15 minutes. 😅 He had several oak ones with a simple steam bent handle, most of them covered in souvenir plaques of places he visited (when one was full he bought a new one I suppose), a bamboo one and one made out of root wood that was twisted along the grain to make a corkscrew shaped staff. But the latter one he seldom used for it was too heavy.
When my health failed several years ago, I began walking with a cane to help with balance. Until then, I never realized how much energy we expend keeping our balance. On the other hand, maybe I was suddenly having to expend more energy keeping my balance because of my neurological issues. At first, I felt self-conscious about walking with a cane. Technically, I could walk without the cane, and I often walk around the house without one. I just become tired more quickly. That's not an issue for a quick trip to the refrigerator, but getting tired halfway through going to the grocery store can be a problem. I don't care about fashion, so I wasn't trying to use a cane to affect a certain look. I just wanted to avoid the appearance of myself on the floor of the grocery store because I became tired and fell. I like the fact that a cane can be used in self-defense. I'd rather have a solid cane than a sword cane for this purpose. If I jab a solid wooden cane with a rubber tip into the chest of an attacker, I have a good chance of pushing him backwards and keeping him away from me. If I jab the long thin blade of a sword cane into an attacker who is very motivated or very drugged, he might continue towards me even as the blade penetrates his chest. If I don't hit an artery or the heart, he may not stop before doing me harm. Attacks happen quickly, and I don't want to be fiddling with the cane to extract the blade of a sword cane from the shaft. I just want to jab my attacker in the chest or solar plexus to drive him away from me. If that doesn't solve the problem, then I will use a swinging strike to try to stop him. If that doesn't work, I will jab him again while I draw a firearm. In any increasingly violent world, I think more people will start to use canes or walking sticks. They will never be as effective as a firearm, but because they are always in the hand, they can be employed immediately instead of having to draw them from a holster. For the same reason, solid canes will remain more popular than sword canes. Another advantage to a cane is that an attacker has less chance to sue someone who knocks him down with a cane than he does to sue someone who shoots him. With a cane, there's less danger of a bullet going through the attacker and hurting an innocent bystander downrange. If the problem can be solved with a cane, the solution is easier for the victim trying to defend himself. Of course, I still very much believe in carrying firearms for when a cane defense isn't going to do the job. For instance, if several attackers approached, I'd just draw a gun and start shooting them. Canes really aren't a problem in a car if one doesn't have passengers. I put mine in the passenger's seat where it rests very nicely.
Nice video, a treat to watch as a cane user myself. I imagine that I would get less judgement as a young disabled man during times where canes were seen as fashionable. I don't personally view people who wear fashion canes as mocking of mobility cane users, if anything it makes me feel happy that people see the cane as something to be desired rather than a negative symbol to be avoided at all costs. There's actually a whole market for medical canes that also serve as fashion statements, mine has a colorful stained glass pattern, and I know neowalk canes are a favorite in disability communities. Sword canes are really cool in theory but in practice they would not work for medical use, because the construction to fit the sword inside would make the cane too unstable to use for balance or support.
This channel is always so interesting. I never even thought about canes as an accessory, even though I have a history degree and *saw* it lots of times. Thank you for all you guys do! Especially getting me into safety razor shaving years ago :)
I love my round brass-topped "Bat Masterson" style stick, and take it wherever I go. The trick is to use that 4-pace swagger, that makes it look like you don't really *need* the stick at all and that it's more of a fashion accessory. It's real handy in the grocery story for pulling out that last bag of chips off the top shelf. Finally, when walking against the flow through crowds it's amazing how you can use it to signal which direction you intend to go and people get out of your way.
Public transport. I use a walking stick for medical reasons. However, when I catch a bus, if I am unable to secure a seat (darn kids) and I have a bag, it can be difficult to wrangle. Particularly so, if the stick does not have a crook with which to hook it over your arm. Even if it does, you must be careful it does not swing and hit other passengers, both sitting and standing.
I could talk about sticks, staffs, and canes all day: I've owned a couple of shoulder-height walking staffs for decades. They're not only priceless for outdoorsmen on long hikes (MUCH cooler than trekking poles), but I got a surprisingly kind reaction from carrying them when I was recovering from abdominal surgery, even here in "civilization." Despite having to be careful what I'm doing with my hands when carrying them, I *would* use them more often: it could have been helpful today, for example, when I had to walk to and from the shop where my car was being worked on. But while a car can accommodate one (note to self; pack it next time!), it's a lot harder to carry one on a bicycle, which USED to be my main method fo getting around . . . which perhaps is why I never picked up the habit. And also, they're not very practical to take to work in a warehouse. And last but not least, if you want to talk about swordcanes, I heartily recommend the late Rutger Hauer in "Blind Fury" (humorously based on the old "Zatoichi" series): not politically correct, but outrageously entertaining.
I would just like to thank the Gentleman's Gazette for coming out with this video and I hope that a video can be produced on why gentlemen started carrying walking canes in the first place:)
Still useful when walking a dog to fend off a stray. And when walking in karst woodland a long stick is useful for checking where dead leaves have gathered, which can hide crevices and the grykes between clints. Similarly in a flood, manhole covers may lift and flow reverse, so a stick is essential. And in mountains, a stick used as a support for a shelter-sheet can save your life. One reason we don't use a stick is that we no longer have to wear pattens in town: Waste and surface water are now drained underground, and we have pavements (sidewalks). Until about 1850, Warwick Lane in London was cobbled and railed for wagons. It still ran with blood from the slaughterhouses of the Metropolitan Meat Market in the mornings, so people who could afford them wore wooden pattens under their shoes. Cobbles were slippery from the ordure of beasts driven there from the Cattle Market. The walls of Giltspur Street were greasy from passing cattle, so you wouldn't want to hse them for support. A staff or stick was useful for balance and maybe poking disgusting things into the gutter. Managing pattens, staff, sword, wig and hat made bowing and raising the hat when greeting someone important an elaborate ritual - with best foot forward - so a staff was essential when in pattens. I had an ancestor who was a patten sole maker.
As an aside, I'm a person with a disability (I'm legally-blind), so I recently (about six months ago) bought myself a white disability cane to carry around. It's a simple straight white cane with a blunted point-tip on the end and a simple straight-grip handle at the top, about three feet long. I carry that around town like a walking stick at times when I go out. If people question it - I have a perfectly legitimate excuse to carry it. I have occasionally done the same thing with my antique bamboo walking stick, too.
I have a wolfs head cane which is a replica of Barnabas Collins cane on Dark Shadows. You don't want to get bonked on the noggin with the wolfs head. I also have a handful of canes/walking sticks and I'm in the process of making a shillelagh from a piece of wood I took from a tree in my old house in Florida and dragged it all the way up to West Virginia with me.
It does look quite good, doesn't it? We could still wear such things today, but it'd be hot in the summertime, and not insulating enough in the winter.
I own several full length, solid wood umbrellas that are easily the equivalent of a walking stick and don’t have the social stigma attached to them. I have a cherry wood crook handle “combat” umbrella, the shaft of thick unbreakable fiberglass and a Brigg umbrella of hickory. Hickory has a terrific sudden load capacity so makes a terrific self defense aid.
Tweaked my back last weekend and used one for a couple of days. I felt embarrassed and ditched it as soon as I could stand up straight again. I also found it to a be a pain to carry and keep track of. It's know in my closet, hopefully never to be used again!
At M.S Rau Antiques in New Orleans I saw a collection of canes for sale that ranged from $1500 - $10,000+ The most interesting cane was for a British Military officer's. It was split and hinged at the top. I was told it was designed to measure the distance between soldiers in formation.
The pace-stick is used in the same way as a navigator uses calipers for measuring distance on his charts. It's opened, one point placed on the ground as a pivot, then as you march it is twirled 180° and the other point lands on the ground to be the pivot and so on. Achieving fluid movement of the pace-stick in time with marching is an art. It is used to measure a drill-square or route for planning ceremonial parades, such as the Changing of the Guard or Trooping the Colour, to position the ranks and files. I think it was also used for setting-out the 'lines' of tents for army camps on campaigns. It is part of the equipment of a Warrant Officer rather than a commissioned officer.
In sort of a complete reversal of everything in the video, I made a self-defense walking stick/cane using a replacement shovel handle from Home Depot and gas iron pipe fittings to create a spike on the bottom and a knob on the top. Using that stick made me feel very secure as I wondered the, late night streets of Kansas City.
Yes , and then it got codified in different systems , among others la canne . Barton-Wright himself said that he took his cane techniques from the Ligny style of canne de combat .
My style modern business casual with some classic and vintage inspiration. Depending on what i am doing that day you can also say military inspired. After all, I am in the military. The only time i ever had a cane or walking stick outside of hiking was when i had a foot injury. Since my mom had spare canes, I was given one by her that was too heavy for her. I used it for two weeks while i recovered. Yes, i was so picked on for it, but it did help me move better all day. Now when hiking I might have my trekking poles but I was more use to having a cut-down sappling or sturdy branch of about 4-5 feet long as my hiking aide. There are ways to use a stick for many things while hiking and i liked the longer length on water crossings.
My main and for me pretty much single problem about caring a plane is really just where to put it wonderfull trousers btw and a great head you really do have a face for bowlers raphael !
Practice daily at home, and you will find it easy to sit anywhere with your cane at your side. The tip rests by your foot, the shaft rests against your knee or thigh, and the top or crook is near your ribs. Unless you carry it everywhere, you will appear awkward.
After finding myself laid up with a back injury at a recent work conference, I found myself also in a wheelchair with two folding wood and brass handles canes tucked to my side, since I could not walk easily without both. That was a month ago. Not that I find myself able to walk quite easily again, I kept one cane because I love the feel of walking with one, and the reverence given to a young guy with a cane. I’m also wearing my nice boots and quality hat a bit more not as well, to finish off the look. I think it’s an accessory I will continue to adopt over the course of my life. Especially when on trails and dressed up.
I have a gear shift knob out of my great uncle's 69 Road Runner that I'm going to put onto a cane top some day. It's a wood shifter knob which a metal plate on top with the shift pattern.
I do my daily morning walks with my cane during the cooler months of the year. One of the small advantage in having one is the priority given when boarding of planes.
I have a cane from my grandfather that is shaped like a snake and it’s really fun to have in the hand. I also have one from my grandmother that is styled after a cow and has a cow face on it. Both are very lovely. I also have some hiking sticks. Along with 3 shepherds canes that I got from my church because they didn’t need them anymore.
A good reference! At GG, our primary focus is on Western classic style and its accompanying history, but always happy to hear of examples from around the world! 🙌
Thanks for the video. This is making me feel less self-conscious about using my cane in public, and if I use it more, I'll fall less. Also nice to see that canes were a fashion accessory for women as well
I have a cane that I made out of an aluminum rod that I have a billiard 8 ball on it . I use it when I have a bit of trouble with my knee and also can double as a fashion accessory and tool for convincing people not to mess with me. The walking stick has always been a useful tool. For walks in the woods I have a longer staff, very handy for clearing snow off low hanging branches and stability.
@@gentlemansgazetteI believe the gentleman is describing a tightly rolled umbrella, very slim, as used by John Steed in The Avengers...I believe his had a sword in it....these could be used for rain but were not...there were umbrellas that were used for rain only...the English also called it a "brolly" or a "bumbershoot"...Steed also used a tightly rolled bowler as well....Patrick Macnee, the actor who portrayed Steed also designed alot of the elegant garments he wore in the program....
I like the aesthetic in certain appropriate circumstances, but I bought a smart wood handle, titanium tipped umbrella from the UK and can rely on it as a solid modern day fill in. Publicly, a useful tool when it's rainy; never when it isn't. But when it is useful, I feel cool carrying it. Lol 😂
I carry a cane everyday, and I have for 40 years or so. Sometimes I use it as a walking support, some I carry are totally impractical for that purpose. Some fancy some are not. I'm perfectly healthy for my age and dont need one for support, I simply like to carry one. Putting one in a vehicle no problem, and I'm certainly not wealthy, or upper class.
I always carry one when going for a walk in the country, you use it to keep brambles and nettles out of your path, prod the ground in front if it's very muddy, help you up uneven ground etc. Plus as a woman alone, it could be a rudimentary defensive weapon.
I use an umbrella as a walking stick when I take long walks with my dog. It also has good multipurpose use. At the same time as it is good rain protection, it is good to lean and rest your feet.
Thanks for this video! I have back problems, and I sometimes have to use a cane. I bought an elegant, black, wooden cane that has a lot of style and I really enjoy it. Fortunately I don't have to use it often, but it's a game changer and I really think it gives me style! I would never ever use another type of cane! :) I'm 34yo btw.
I love all your videos and I’ve been enjoying for several years…. This one about canes is top of the tree… thank you for educating me about many topics… at 70 I love still learning about today and history thank you
I've decided to put my grandfather's bowler hat to use this Winter (one month away in the Sthn Hemisphere). It's of the traditional kind, hard rimmed and solid; it's seen better days but is still quite wearable and fits me to a tee. It's a pity my great-grandfather's sola topee is no longer fit for use, last worn around 1857 - 60 in India. Looks like it saw heavy duty wear. I'm always cautious around it, knowing he caught cholera, and I harbour fears it may still be lurking in the fibres! 😂 But as far as the bowler is concerned, it seems to be apt at the moment, my being 72 and humbled somewhat by sciatica, that a walking cane might be a good match. I've had it in mind for a few months now, and have decided that a vintage model in good, sturdy condition would be ideal. I think short walks where I'm not likely to need both hands free would be the thing, or for longer strolls but probably not for shopping expeditions or where I expect to be carrying parcels and bags. Umbrellas are annoying enough!
Would you wear a sword cane if you could?
If I was successful enough to own my own helicopter, I think I could get away with it. Somehow, working at the post office, I think people would just look at me weird.
Would be interesting somehow. But definitely illegal here in Germany. Not worth going to jail for.
I would, and could, and do.
I studied fencing when I was younger so yes, I would love to be able to have a sword cane.
Absolutely. In my book, this goes part and parcel with Cane-Fu: I'm too old to fight and carry too much avoirdupois to run. Or vice-versa. 😉👍
General Douglas McArthur used a cane as a fashion accessory until a young boy sent him a letter during WWII asking if he needed it because he was feeble. He promptly ditched the cane and never used one again.
That's kinda sad honestly. 😅
Gen McArthur was such a great general and gentleman
I asked my great grandfather the same question (whether he was feeble) when I saw him, at 98 with his walking stick. The next day, his walking stick was gone.
so he let a little boy make him self conscious because hes worried about looking strong?
@_nenju No, General MacArthur was also being considered as a possible candidate for President. It was more of a PR consideration, he didn't want anyone to not think he was strong and in good physical condition.
They became fashionable but in the UK their main purpose was actually mainly for the same reason old people still use them. If you've ever been in the UK and walked on wet Yorkstone paving in leather soles you'll see why they needed a cane, it's like walking on ice. Before WWII almost all the paving in London was York Stone or wood block. I know two people who have broken bones wearing leather soled shoes on wet Yorkstone pavements in London. After the war a lot of the Yorkstone was replaced with cement paving which doesn't get the same greasy/slippy finish when wet, plus rubber soled walking shoes became more common.
I've walked on wet department store floors with worn rubber-soled sneakers and can empathize.
Thank you, that was very informative.
Thank you. I had learned a new thing today
One thing you missed is, a walking cane shows you don't need your hands. You are free from needing you hold and carry things or do work.
yep -- far from a porter or labourer
As a female who loves my pockets I feel the purse has a similar pourpose. You you carry your purse you don't need to carry groceries or items. Or if your hubby carries your purse it is a signal that he is taken to any other women around.
Like cell phones
And some had the sword hidden in the cane.
So it's like a long nail for a women.
I use a cane because of chronic pain. I don't like modern medical canes because they are flimsy. I've had one fold on me and it left me stranded. So now I make my own canes out of exotic hard words. They are all gorgeous and people stop me all the time to ask me about them.
That's so cool! Bet they look awesome
You should make a cane out of onomatopoeia or tao te ching, those are some exotic hard words
@@thecianinator hahahaha
I carry a silver headed Irish blackthorn stick, partly because of my bad knee, and partly as a fashion accessory. I often get compliments on my stick.
I want to see what your exotic canes look like.
I am a lady, and I like to use a walking stick when on uneven ground. I also like to carry one when walking at night, as a defensive weapon. I have trained in stick fighting; short and long. When walking to church or another more formal setting, I use an elegant one. I also have everyday sticks and hiking sticks.
Where you learn stick fighting?
so we XC ski, so learned to bear down on the strap with the "karate chop" part of the hand -- then only to thumb & forefinger hold the pole top; the pinky guides the XC or Trekking Pole tip to be behind your aft foot heel plus as close to behind your rear as possible, to propel you forward
It also takes weight off your kees & hips !!
so you might like on UA-cam the Epiphany Evensong recordings,
or St. Mark's Compline, both from Seattle
@@yoeyyoey8937 Latosa escrima is the name of the discipline
@@Br1cht nice thank you!
I’m 66 years old now and I use my great grandfather’s walking cane when I go for my walks. Nice outfit by the way looks good.
My father, born 1938 uses sometimes his greatfathers cane.
Well done!
My mom has her father's custom cane he used in his later years. Neither her nor I care for it as a mobility aid as it is very much the wrong size and shape, but as an accessory it is pretty cool.
Ironically Gido (Grandfather in Ukrainian) was much larger than I am but I find his cane too small
I have my Dads walking cane hand carved by my aunt in 1944 in Germany It was passed on to me 2 years ago when he died. I don't use that cane it's a bit short for me and it is very fragile.
I’m over 70 , and use a cane from time to time , a fine old piece of hickory , in certain environments it can be quite useful .
I had an long umbrella with a cane-like handle. I loved walking with it, it was perfect to walk with a perfect excuse to have a "cane" even as a fit 26yo guy.
When I was child all umbrellas were huge, either with a hook or knob handle and use them like staves. Sometimes I bring the more "antique" umbrellas we still have that have heavy wooden handles. I think they'd pack a punch when swung and they are still sturdy for stabbing.
I got stranded in Bath, missing the last bus to the Park and Ride. I'd a very painful hip problem and my phone was dead, so I couldn't call a taxi. I climbed Lansdown - a good few miles - but my trusty umbrella saw me through once I got in the rhythm.
On sword canes, it should be noted that even the "well made" ones weren't particularly good as weapons or as canes. The thinness of the blades in them made them prone to breaking, while hollowing out the cane to accommodate the blade made it weaker. It was also often difficult to deploy the blade when attacked due to how tightly the two pieces had to fit together compared to a normal sword/scabbard. Many newspaper accounts from the period that describe incidents where they were used even mention those using them being injured when the blades snapped or being forced to simply defend themself as they would with any other cane when they couldn't draw the sword.
I feel like they would really only be good for aggressively keeping people at a distance. Lol
Yeah but at the same time
Sword cane
I would recommend the japanese ones as those had historical use after the sword ban but hey I might be taking out ma behind
I don't know where you get your information?
@@moorshound3243 Aside from newspaper accounts of the period (which I mentioned in my OP), I've had the opportunity to handle both historical and modern sword canes on multiple occasions.
Gentleman’s Gazette: “Why did men stop carrying canes?”
Kirby Allison: “Here is my latest bespoke cane from this master craftsman in London, an absolute essential for the proper gentleman.”
Growing up on a dairy farm ,canes were a common sight, used to prod cows and young heifers who would get their shoulder into you and pin you against a stall or another critter, it was a fashion accessory for folks with dirty boots.
Farm animals know the stick and respect it.
Livestock canes are used daily. Shepherds hook is longer. My 4’ is Hickory, burned and finished looks great. Will not break.Can be used as a pry bar.
Bring gentlemen's black silk-lined capes back immediately. So stylish.
Be the change you want to see in the world. Wear the cape.
I wear a black cape I inherited from my great grandfather during the winter months. Like the comment above me, be the change you want to see in the world. Start wearing it, and sooner or later you will see people using it as well.
Yes, and curly moustaches!
Adam Adamant
I had a cane with a pool cue inside, received as a gift.
It very probably previously had a weapon inside…
Now you have us pondering whether we could play a game of billiards with our canes!
I'd seriously like one like that
most if not all custom cues can be used as a weapon, the weighted back end piece consists of lead weights set to the user's preference. [similar I believe to the older police force Billy club]
Gentlemen used to carry swords until the king made it unlawful so the cane was adopted…..
If I remember correctly, the aristocratic men were hilariously constantly killing one another off dueling over petty nonsense, so the king finally banned it outright.
@@themoderndandy713: Not really. It was french revolution of 1789 and the napoleonic wars which caused the change. It was in those days seen unnecessary for civilians to carry weapons, when regular police forces had been created. Those policeforces had been more a paramilitary Gendarmerie than a civilian police like London Metropolitan Police of about 1830. Weapons had not been forbidden, only open carry of defence weapons. So smallsword was replaced by swordcane, and saddle holster pistol by belt or pocket pistols.
@@brittakriep2938 Interesting information! Thank you. I'll leave my comment up but point to you as knowing more than me about these things.
Weren't canes being already used as a fashion accessory by the late 17th and 18th centuries (when swords were still being worn by civilians)?
Sir Author Conan Doyle talks about several characters who carry canes filled with lead, called”Penang Lawyer”
Canes should be an EDC item again. They're quite useful.
I use them for medical purposes, yes. But even if I didn't need one, I'd use one
I'm considering getting a cane ever since my leg injury, too.
I occasionally use one for medical purposes... and yea I never would consider someone rocking one as an accessory mocking me provided that they were not otherwise doing such.
I can't speak for all people who use mobility aids but most I have spoken with are not offended by the thought of someone carrying one as part of an ensemble... if anything more people who use them by choice rather than exclusively as a mobility aid reduces the stigma of using a cane.
@@klingoncowboy4 I started using a cane about 10 years ago do to a back injury that causes me to drag my left toes. Being a wood carver i have since gotten into carving decorative wooden canes I have several differant canes but tend to use a favourite fitted to my left hand This cane has wild life heads carved on it. We have a berry bush here in western Canada called saskatoon berries. they're similar to blue berries. The wood stalks have mild bends in them but the wood is exremely hard. This is my favourite carving wood.
I totally agree. Even before I had medical issues crop up where I would need to carry a cane for my bad days, I still carried a cane or walking staff with me due to their multifunctional usages. People even have gifted me canes and staves, so now I have an E.D.C. selection and a " snazzy" collection for formal occasions. XD
@@markseehawer3762 I am very familiar with Saskatoons, they grow wild all over my property... neat idea for the main volunteer bush in my yard for when it reaches end of life.
I have been carrying a cane for about forty years, and have eight of them by now. Many of them have animal heads. They do help me with stability, but I have also taken advantage of having them as a fashion accessory. They do look quite smart with a suit and are a perfect accent when I am wearing a kilt. Thank you for this video! By the way, I also have many, many hats.
Bravo for the kilt! I too have been using canes with both suits and kilts for a while now, and love the look. My coworkers consider me eccentric, but that's okay with me, because I enjoy how I dress.
@@republicjim120 what tartan do you wear?
@@modwolf55 The one in my profile pic is my clan tartan, Grant Modern. I also have Black Watch, Scottish National, Irish National, and Pride of Scotland. Unfortunately none of them are quality wool kilts, due to my limited budget. Eventually I will bite the bullet and invest in a moderate off-the-rack wool tartan. However, very few people in my remote area know the difference, and I'm the only person who regularly wears a kilt here. I get a lot of compliments in spite of my budget-friendly (cheap) tartans, especially when paired with an Argyle jacket, dress sporran, and classy walking cane. What tartan(s) do you wear?
@@republicjim120 My clan is Strachan, and that kilt is reserved for special occasions, such as Burns night. I also have several of those "universal" tartan kilts. I have a dozen in total. About half of those are tartan utility kilts from UTKilts. They are best for playing with my Celtic rock band as they are washable and I don't have to worry about wear and tear so much. Your Grant Modern is nice one!
I love dress canes! I have a brown one with a brass knob, a black one with a brass knob, a brown one with a toucan handle from Costa Rica, and a cane sword I never carry because it's illegal in public where I live.
I took a cane to New York City for the very reason of deterring muggers. I didn't get mugged, so I guess it worked.
I've 2 different length Bubba Stix from Gainesville, Texas.
Maple w/brass harness hasp from draft animal yoke.
Do police search u often when ur using a cane if not u should be able to get away with carrying one
I'm 34, tall and do weightlifting but I've always liked having a cane ... simply to have something to do with my hands and because I've always like the Victorian style clothing. So a few years ago I got myself a luxury cane-umbrella combination from one of the very few classic stores in Belgium. I have it with me almost everywhere I go when not working or go grocery shopping.
On cold autumn and winter days I also have my fashionable design black and while top hat and a classic style coat.
There is just something about that style but indeed, when I intend to do a lot of activities and/or need both my hands I will wear modern day clothes.
I spent 2 years unable to walk upright due to a work accident and I had to use a cane daily to move around any great distance. I ended up making my own out of a crowbar because the medical ones I bought kept bowing and breaking. The amount of positive attention I got from others asking about the cane was a great morale booster at a time that I was seriously worried about my future. I eventually recovered and while I don't carry a cane any more I can respect those that do for either fashion or practical reasons.
I am 43 and I got caned in high school. I felt so old when you said that it may only be your Grandfathers or Great Grandfathers who may remember it...
53 here and I remember the cane well.
I remember my headmaster took a cane off a teacher who *was* using it in their class... As an adult I looked it up and it was banned a year or two later. I'm an elder millennial.
I am 29 and caning was used in schools when I went
People who get caned are less likely to be spoiled brats if they are intelligent enough to understand why it was done and why discipline is important but if they are on the lower side of the spectrum of intelligence will grow resentment towards it
Whilst my parents (in their early 60s) didn't experience caning, other than the odd teacher who still had one in their classroom as a threat, they did witness other forms of physical assault at school. I think the most common thing was the teacher chucking a piece of chalk or even a board rubber at a student!
I looked up when such punishments were actually banned here in the UK and was surprised that it wasn't until 1986 and that was only in state schools! It looks like private schools were banned by country:
- England and Wales - 1998
- Scotland - 2000
- Northern Ireland - 2003
I'm not sure how much it actually happened, if at all, in the later years but it's shocking to think that children may have been legally caned in the UK in the 21st century (and I wouldn't be surprised if there are countries who still haven't abolished it).
Great video as ever, Raphael.
A lot of what you say is very on-point. I love walking sticks, I do, I really do...but I think the main reasons people don't carry them are...
1. They don't need them for walking anymore. They have cars, they have trams, trains...
2. They're unwieldy. You always have to hold onto it somehow.
A couple of months ago, I injured my back, and I had to spend a few days walking around town carrying my walking stick (I have an antique one which is bamboo and silver) and after carrying it for just 2-3 days, I noticed just how much you have to allow for it.
Don't forget it somewhere. Don't drop it. Don't let it fall over. How are you going to carry it when you need both hands for something? How are you going to tuck it under your arm or lean it against something? etc etc etc.
And that was just after wearing it for a week or less. I can't imagine doing it for YEARS at a time. The moment my back felt better, I put the stick back into my umbrella stand and left it there.
I occasionally take it out, if I'm using it as a prop, or for historical demonstration purposes, but otherwise, it stays at home.
Many foot paths and roads where made of Cobble stone and where difficult to walk on, walking stick helped your balance and prevented you from falling. Especially in the open sewers and horse manuer.
I started using a walking stick more generally last year. I live very close to my work, but it's up a large hill so I walk every day. I find it incredibly healpful for stabilizing myself and keeping my pace that I use it whenever I walk. It is wonderful.
I'm holding you to be solely responsible for introducing me to gadget canes, sir.
How dare you. I'm running out of room for stuff to collect.
I loved the idea of walking sticks ever since seeing the old TV series about Bat Masterson. He actually needed the cane while he was recovering from a gunshot wound in his leg, but he kept it even after he healed, as a "trademark" of sorts like on the show.
My mum's uncle stopped using those when he died in 1994. The sweetest uncle I was fortunate to have around until I was 19/20 years old.
You great uncle quit using a cane after he died?
I believe that when I pass,that I will also cease making use of a cane...as well as the use of any other material object;
BECAUSE I'LL BE DEAD!
😁I guess it makes sense that he didn't use a cane after death.
So moral of the story is to never stop using canes?
@@TheTacticalHaggis I'm seeing why you've the handle of "Tactical"!
Good job(I'm gonna see if this type of plot armouring worx!)🤠
Rather than cane I prefer using my umbrella-cane (the non-foldable one). It doesn't feel wrong to use it as a cane when there's a probability of rain, it's not uncommon and of course more usable in case of rain :). I also have a regular cane for some reason and I have to mention, umbrella is way lighter than my steel cane (which is so heavy that I may consider it a blunt weapon, so I just basically never use it).
When carrying an umbrella cane, you know, it's very hard not to start using it as a cane. It just feels natural thing to do. My friends also agreed with me in this.
I found this video to be really interesting. I'm 71 years old and walk with a medical cane, a metal shepherd's crook that can be adjusted for the user's height. Between balance issues, weakness, and arthritis, obviously, style is not a consideration. I couldn't get around without it.
I wear a cowboy hat for medically reasons to keep the suns rays of my face
@@allamasadi7970 I wear a fedora when I go out for exactly the same reasons.
I carried one before my heart operation as a fashion accessory that moved to a mobility device. I still get a lot of compliments on the walking stick.
I experimented with walking around with a walking stick when I was about 25. I wanted to make sure that I actually walked with the stick, like leaning on it, instead of just randomly flapping it on the ground. As a consequence, a lot of people thought I was handicapped and were extra polite and courteous with me. I felt guilty about that, so I stopped walking with a walking stick.
Correction: actually, it was a cane. It was a really cool when I bought at a Russian shop. Or actually, I don't know. It had a silver handle at the top, not just a decorative knob. But it didn't actually hook over.
When I walked without leaning on it, some people thought that I had a sword hidden in it. Like, they actually thought I had a weapon with me.
I always wanted the cane Hammond had in Jurassic Park with the amber fossil on the top.
"Canes...uh...find a way..."
@@gentlemansgazetteRaphael, can you help me? I have a cane that looks like yours at 10:20....it was my late father's....I can't find any information on its provenance....the only "identifier" is "WS" in a circle etched on the "collar" above the knob....Would you know who "WS" is? Thanks!
No expense was spared ...
When the flute was amongst the most popular amateur musical instruments, there were canes that doubled as flutes, so one could play music whenever the impulse hit.
I have found myself investigating shillelaghs recently. No hidden blades or anything, just some good weight. And they look good. In my opinion at least.
Shillelaghs are beautiful! I have two, both handmade in Ireland from blackthorn!
@@artawhirlerbeautiful ,how much did they cost?
@@seronymus $185 and $285 USD.
Thank you for another fine video essay. Stumbled upon James Smith & Sons many years ago on a trip to London. Purchased a cane there in anticipation of a future sports injury. An elderly salesman in morning coat took the time to go downstairs and install a brass tip by hand. Never had reason to use the cane for its intended purpose until much older. Smith & Sons also sold buggy whips and scepters - do those next! 😆
I love this interesting video about walking canes. I was inspired by my late paternal grandfather who use a few walking canes along with prayer beads. He died in a road accident after returning from the market in 1976. He was 85 at that time. I have a few collections of unique walking sticks that I used to distribute to the needy old folks whenever I meet them. Many people nowadays are shy to use the walking stick.
I have a cane for non-fashion purposes, and I've found it has many uses! Mostly related to reaching things on high shelves and protecting my space in a crowd.
This was a fantastic episode. Personally i am a big fan of a cane or walking stick. It startred with a steel one i made to help with sciatica flare ups and it was so practical i kept using it. It is very handy with small childeren as you can use it to guide them as they walk so you dont end up bent over all the time. Now i use a wooden one i made with a light on top of it. The kids are continuously fascinated by it and always want to play with it. Its alot of fun.
I love my collection of canes, and I wear one at every opportunity. There's a knack to looking elegant with one, but once you've got it, wow. A nice suit and hat are great, but top it off with the right cane and you're on a level of your own.
Other variants include the military swagger stick or the Field Marshal's ornate baton or perhaps a monarch's sceptre
Completely different things. Regalia is never a walking aid or a weapon.
many people have balance problems which are helped by canes which also helps with self defense.
In parts of rural Ireland, culchies often walk with canes known as shillelaghs. They use these to beat away wolverines.
And werewolves
There are wolverines in Ireland?! And just a whack with a cane could keep them away? Are they the same kind of wolverines that we have here in Canada??? When I was little, I thought that the Tasmanian devil (from Bugs Bunny) lived in my closet and I would imagine him spinning his way out to get me but my real fear was wolverines.
Edit: I knew shilleleighs were a stick of some kind, I didn't know that wolverines were involved. Pardon my spelling.
Shillelagh is one of my favourite cantrips in DND, and I had no idea it was more than the name with an etymology and history behind it! Really neat, gonna do a wikipedia binge on it
Shillelaghs were used as weapons in pub fights. My late father ran a pub since early 1950s.
Shillelagh was the great oak forest outside vDublin. A sassanach clearcut it fior pipestems.
I have an extensive collection of vintage walking sticks. Sometimes I use my alpine hiking cane while hiking local trails. I also use an English thumb stick for hiking as well. Cheers Ron
My grandad always used a walking cane when hiking or going for a stroll. And he walked a lot. When he wasn't working in the garden or repairing something in the house he was in the forest looking for mushrooms or for cool looking boulders or roots to decorate the garden with. He drove granny nuts because he just couldn't sit down snd relax for more than 15 minutes. 😅
He had several oak ones with a simple steam bent handle, most of them covered in souvenir plaques of places he visited (when one was full he bought a new one I suppose), a bamboo one and one made out of root wood that was twisted along the grain to make a corkscrew shaped staff. But the latter one he seldom used for it was too heavy.
When my health failed several years ago, I began walking with a cane to help with balance. Until then, I never realized how much energy we expend keeping our balance. On the other hand, maybe I was suddenly having to expend more energy keeping my balance because of my neurological issues.
At first, I felt self-conscious about walking with a cane. Technically, I could walk without the cane, and I often walk around the house without one. I just become tired more quickly. That's not an issue for a quick trip to the refrigerator, but getting tired halfway through going to the grocery store can be a problem. I don't care about fashion, so I wasn't trying to use a cane to affect a certain look. I just wanted to avoid the appearance of myself on the floor of the grocery store because I became tired and fell.
I like the fact that a cane can be used in self-defense. I'd rather have a solid cane than a sword cane for this purpose. If I jab a solid wooden cane with a rubber tip into the chest of an attacker, I have a good chance of pushing him backwards and keeping him away from me. If I jab the long thin blade of a sword cane into an attacker who is very motivated or very drugged, he might continue towards me even as the blade penetrates his chest. If I don't hit an artery or the heart, he may not stop before doing me harm. Attacks happen quickly, and I don't want to be fiddling with the cane to extract the blade of a sword cane from the shaft. I just want to jab my attacker in the chest or solar plexus to drive him away from me. If that doesn't solve the problem, then I will use a swinging strike to try to stop him. If that doesn't work, I will jab him again while I draw a firearm.
In any increasingly violent world, I think more people will start to use canes or walking sticks. They will never be as effective as a firearm, but because they are always in the hand, they can be employed immediately instead of having to draw them from a holster. For the same reason, solid canes will remain more popular than sword canes. Another advantage to a cane is that an attacker has less chance to sue someone who knocks him down with a cane than he does to sue someone who shoots him. With a cane, there's less danger of a bullet going through the attacker and hurting an innocent bystander downrange. If the problem can be solved with a cane, the solution is easier for the victim trying to defend himself. Of course, I still very much believe in carrying firearms for when a cane defense isn't going to do the job. For instance, if several attackers approached, I'd just draw a gun and start shooting them.
Canes really aren't a problem in a car if one doesn't have passengers. I put mine in the passenger's seat where it rests very nicely.
Nice video, a treat to watch as a cane user myself. I imagine that I would get less judgement as a young disabled man during times where canes were seen as fashionable. I don't personally view people who wear fashion canes as mocking of mobility cane users, if anything it makes me feel happy that people see the cane as something to be desired rather than a negative symbol to be avoided at all costs. There's actually a whole market for medical canes that also serve as fashion statements, mine has a colorful stained glass pattern, and I know neowalk canes are a favorite in disability communities. Sword canes are really cool in theory but in practice they would not work for medical use, because the construction to fit the sword inside would make the cane too unstable to use for balance or support.
This channel is always so interesting. I never even thought about canes as an accessory, even though I have a history degree and *saw* it lots of times. Thank you for all you guys do! Especially getting me into safety razor shaving years ago :)
We're so pleased to be a part of your style journey!
I love my round brass-topped "Bat Masterson" style stick, and take it wherever I go. The trick is to use that 4-pace swagger, that makes it look like you don't really *need* the stick at all and that it's more of a fashion accessory.
It's real handy in the grocery story for pulling out that last bag of chips off the top shelf.
Finally, when walking against the flow through crowds it's amazing how you can use it to signal which direction you intend to go and people get out of your way.
I used to use my umbrella to stop the tube train doors closing on late-comers.
As a photgrapher, i often bring my monopod with me.
And mostly, i just used it as a walking stick instead on my camera.
Excellent video, Raphael. I have admired your attention to detail and knowledge on the topic of classic men's wear.
Public transport. I use a walking stick for medical reasons. However, when I catch a bus, if I am unable to secure a seat (darn kids) and I have a bag, it can be difficult to wrangle. Particularly so, if the stick does not have a crook with which to hook it over your arm. Even if it does, you must be careful it does not swing and hit other passengers, both sitting and standing.
I could talk about sticks, staffs, and canes all day: I've owned a couple of shoulder-height walking staffs for decades. They're not only priceless for outdoorsmen on long hikes (MUCH cooler than trekking poles), but I got a surprisingly kind reaction from carrying them when I was recovering from abdominal surgery, even here in "civilization." Despite having to be careful what I'm doing with my hands when carrying them, I *would* use them more often: it could have been helpful today, for example, when I had to walk to and from the shop where my car was being worked on. But while a car can accommodate one (note to self; pack it next time!), it's a lot harder to carry one on a bicycle, which USED to be my main method fo getting around . . . which perhaps is why I never picked up the habit. And also, they're not very practical to take to work in a warehouse.
And last but not least, if you want to talk about swordcanes, I heartily recommend the late Rutger Hauer in "Blind Fury" (humorously based on the old "Zatoichi" series): not politically correct, but outrageously entertaining.
I love the positivity in this video. Wear the cool thing if you want to, just own it.
The Raphael vs Preston fencing match was an excellent touch!!
I would just like to thank the Gentleman's Gazette for coming out with this video and I hope that a video can be produced on why gentlemen started carrying walking canes in the first place:)
I’ve spent the last two days watching goofy cane martial arts waiting for a style guide 😂😂😂
Happy to be of assistance!
the gentlemens martial art
Still useful when walking a dog to fend off a stray. And when walking in karst woodland a long stick is useful for checking where dead leaves have gathered, which can hide crevices and the grykes between clints. Similarly in a flood, manhole covers may lift and flow reverse, so a stick is essential. And in mountains, a stick used as a support for a shelter-sheet can save your life.
One reason we don't use a stick is that we no longer have to wear pattens in town:
Waste and surface water are now drained underground, and we have pavements (sidewalks). Until about 1850, Warwick Lane in London was cobbled and railed for wagons. It still ran with blood from the slaughterhouses of the Metropolitan Meat Market in the mornings, so people who could afford them wore wooden pattens under their shoes. Cobbles were slippery from the ordure of beasts driven there from the Cattle Market. The walls of Giltspur Street were greasy from passing cattle, so you wouldn't want to hse them for support. A staff or stick was useful for balance and maybe poking disgusting things into the gutter.
Managing pattens, staff, sword, wig and hat made bowing and raising the hat when greeting someone important an elaborate ritual - with best foot forward - so a staff was essential when in pattens.
I had an ancestor who was a patten sole maker.
As an aside, I'm a person with a disability (I'm legally-blind), so I recently (about six months ago) bought myself a white disability cane to carry around. It's a simple straight white cane with a blunted point-tip on the end and a simple straight-grip handle at the top, about three feet long.
I carry that around town like a walking stick at times when I go out. If people question it - I have a perfectly legitimate excuse to carry it. I have occasionally done the same thing with my antique bamboo walking stick, too.
I have a wolfs head cane which is a replica of Barnabas Collins cane on Dark Shadows. You don't want to get bonked on the noggin with the wolfs head. I also have a handful of canes/walking sticks and I'm in the process of making a shillelagh from a piece of wood I took from a tree in my old house in Florida and dragged it all the way up to West Virginia with me.
Men had best clothing in 1940s movies
It does look quite good, doesn't it? We could still wear such things today, but it'd be hot in the summertime, and not insulating enough in the winter.
you like men in clothes
@@WorldWalker128..yet fabrics today are cooler in summer (breathable fabric) and warmer in winter (Thinsulate).
30s-mid 60s
If they didn’t need sock garters it would have been a lot more comfortable 😅
I want to comment on your excellent pronunciation and clear speech. It is very dignified.
I still carry an antique Charlie Chaplin style ‘20s bamboo walking cane daily. (Also I dress Edwardian style)
now that is cool
@@dianevanderlinden3480 thanks!
You are weird... I like you 👍
@@onslaughtcr3078 thank you! That is the highest compliment possible to me 😂. Have a great day!
@@TheoTheTimeTravelingMagician good, It was meant as compliment 😉 have a good one you too
I own several full length, solid wood umbrellas that are easily the equivalent of a walking stick and don’t have the social stigma attached to them. I have a cherry wood crook handle “combat” umbrella, the shaft of thick unbreakable fiberglass and a Brigg umbrella of hickory. Hickory has a terrific sudden load capacity so makes a terrific self defense aid.
Used staffs and walking sticks for a long time, now have to use a sturdy cane for any walking, so i cant imagine being without one.
Very interesting, cant say im a frequent viewer but whenever i find myself drawn in to one of your videos it never disappoints. Keep it up
I do enjoy vintage and old stuff. Maybe that y this was recommended to me.
Tweaked my back last weekend and used one for a couple of days. I felt embarrassed and ditched it as soon as I could stand up straight again. I also found it to a be a pain to carry and keep track of. It's know in my closet, hopefully never to be used again!
At M.S Rau Antiques in New Orleans I saw a collection of canes for sale that ranged from $1500 - $10,000+ The most interesting cane was for a British Military officer's. It was split and hinged at the top. I was told it was designed to measure the distance between soldiers in formation.
It's called a "Pace stick."
The pace-stick is used in the same way as a navigator uses calipers for measuring distance on his charts. It's opened, one point placed on the ground as a pivot, then as you march it is twirled 180° and the other point lands on the ground to be the pivot and so on. Achieving fluid movement of the pace-stick in time with marching is an art.
It is used to measure a drill-square or route for planning ceremonial parades, such as the Changing of the Guard or Trooping the Colour, to position the ranks and files. I think it was also used for setting-out the 'lines' of tents for army camps on campaigns. It is part of the equipment of a Warrant Officer rather than a commissioned officer.
In sort of a complete reversal of everything in the video, I made a self-defense walking stick/cane using a replacement shovel handle from Home Depot and gas iron pipe fittings to create a spike on the bottom and a knob on the top. Using that stick made me feel very secure as I wondered the, late night streets of Kansas City.
The stick-fighting in Bartitsu was taken from the French art of la canne , which is still being practised today as a sport .
Stick fighting has been practiced in every culture in the world since prehistoric man first started walking upright.
Yes , and then it got codified in different systems , among others la canne . Barton-Wright himself said that he took his cane techniques from the Ligny style of canne de combat .
My style modern business casual with some classic and vintage inspiration. Depending on what i am doing that day you can also say military inspired. After all, I am in the military. The only time i ever had a cane or walking stick outside of hiking was when i had a foot injury. Since my mom had spare canes, I was given one by her that was too heavy for her. I used it for two weeks while i recovered. Yes, i was so picked on for it, but it did help me move better all day.
Now when hiking I might have my trekking poles but I was more use to having a cut-down sappling or sturdy branch of about 4-5 feet long as my hiking aide. There are ways to use a stick for many things while hiking and i liked the longer length on water crossings.
Man I LOVE this channel. You're awesome!
Thank you!
My main and for me pretty much single problem about caring a plane is really just where to put it wonderfull trousers btw and a great head you really do have a face for bowlers raphael !
Practice daily at home, and you will find it easy to sit anywhere with your cane at your side. The tip rests by your foot, the shaft rests against your knee or thigh, and the top or crook is near your ribs. Unless you carry it everywhere, you will appear awkward.
ive had a walking cane for a few months ive been complemented on it a great deal! tell us more about gadget canes
After finding myself laid up with a back injury at a recent work conference, I found myself also in a wheelchair with two folding wood and brass handles canes tucked to my side, since I could not walk easily without both.
That was a month ago. Not that I find myself able to walk quite easily again, I kept one cane because I love the feel of walking with one, and the reverence given to a young guy with a cane.
I’m also wearing my nice boots and quality hat a bit more not as well, to finish off the look.
I think it’s an accessory I will continue to adopt over the course of my life. Especially when on trails and dressed up.
Interesting, informative & enjoyable. Thanks for providing.
I have a gear shift knob out of my great uncle's 69 Road Runner that I'm going to put onto a cane top some day. It's a wood shifter knob which a metal plate on top with the shift pattern.
I do my daily morning walks with my cane during the cooler months of the year. One of the small advantage in having one is the priority given when boarding of planes.
I use a cane on occasion, but I am a long distance walker. It can be a good way to build upper body strength as you like while walking.
Your speech in your videos has improved 1000x. Obviously, you've been working on it. Bravo!
What was wrong with it before?
@@yoeyyoey8937nothing wrong, it was merely different. And some folks have a problem with that.
Nicely done as usual. I use homemade hazel walking sticks regularly in the woods. They help.
Another excellent and very informative video! ...thanks!
I have a cane from my grandfather that is shaped like a snake and it’s really fun to have in the hand. I also have one from my grandmother that is styled after a cow and has a cow face on it. Both are very lovely. I also have some hiking sticks. Along with 3 shepherds canes that I got from my church because they didn’t need them anymore.
For some reason, you concentrate only on the Western tradition, while in Zatoichi movie they showed a great example of utility cane
A good reference! At GG, our primary focus is on Western classic style and its accompanying history, but always happy to hear of examples from around the world! 🙌
Thanks for the video. This is making me feel less self-conscious about using my cane in public, and if I use it more, I'll fall less. Also nice to see that canes were a fashion accessory for women as well
My next accessory purchase.
I have a cane that I made out of an aluminum rod that I have a billiard 8 ball on it . I use it when I have a bit of trouble with my knee and also can double as a fashion accessory and tool for convincing people not to mess with me. The walking stick has always been a useful tool. For walks in the woods I have a longer staff, very handy for clearing snow off low hanging branches and stability.
One important cane wasn't mentioned - cane umbrella. It is still used, even with a lot less classical outfit, and could be a sword as well.
Just to clarify - do you mean a full size (non-telescoping) umbrella, or umbrellas that were housed in a cane's body?
@@gentlemansgazette I ment a full size umbrella.
@@alexeysaphonov232 These would be considered umbrellas, not canes, as their primary purpose is to shield the user from rain 🙂
@@gentlemansgazetteI believe the gentleman is describing a tightly rolled umbrella, very slim, as used by John Steed in The Avengers...I believe his had a sword in it....these could be used for rain but were not...there were umbrellas that were used for rain only...the English also called it a "brolly" or a "bumbershoot"...Steed also used a tightly rolled bowler as well....Patrick Macnee, the actor who portrayed Steed also designed alot of the elegant garments he wore in the program....
@@edgaraquino2324 If you dress with the style of John Steed, you'll attract women like Mrs. Peel.
I like the aesthetic in certain appropriate circumstances, but I bought a smart wood handle, titanium tipped umbrella from the UK and can rely on it as a solid modern day fill in. Publicly, a useful tool when it's rainy; never when it isn't. But when it is useful, I feel cool carrying it. Lol 😂
The main reason are the dogs. There were huge number of stray and not stray dogs on the streets - all unfixed.
I always loved the cane and the top hat!! The men looked so dapper. The women looked classy with their parasol.
I carry a cane everyday, and I have for 40 years or so. Sometimes I use it as a walking support, some I carry are totally impractical for that purpose. Some fancy some are not. I'm perfectly healthy for my age and dont need one for support, I simply like to carry one. Putting one in a vehicle no problem, and I'm certainly not wealthy, or upper class.
I always carry one when going for a walk in the country, you use it to keep brambles and nettles out of your path, prod the ground in front if it's very muddy, help you up uneven ground etc. Plus as a woman alone, it could be a rudimentary defensive weapon.
A license to carry a cane is one of the most absurd overarching laws I've ever heard of.
I use an umbrella as a walking stick when I take long walks with my dog. It also has good multipurpose use. At the same time as it is good rain protection, it is good to lean and rest your feet.
Fantastic video.
Loved it.
Ty so very much Brother
Glad you enjoyed it
Thanks for this video! I have back problems, and I sometimes have to use a cane. I bought an elegant, black, wooden cane that has a lot of style and I really enjoy it. Fortunately I don't have to use it often, but it's a game changer and I really think it gives me style! I would never ever use another type of cane! :) I'm 34yo btw.
I still carry one...mine has you pull out the handle and it becomes a blade. Perfect to walk with after a bit of Milk +
Milk + Levocet? 🤔👍
Always ready for a Clockwork Orange shout-out, how do you sew the eyeballs and the flames onto your dress shirt cuffs??
I take it you wear a bowler hat with your cane, too? 😉
@@gentlemansgazette With a codpiece, and some tasteful eyebrow pencil around one eye, and a set of braces..
I love all your videos and I’ve been enjoying for several years…. This one about canes is top of the tree… thank you for educating me about many topics… at 70 I love still learning about today and history thank you
67 years old, bad knee, years of Kung Fu training. I have realized the medical, as well as the tactical uses of a cane.
I've decided to put my grandfather's bowler hat to use this Winter (one month away in the Sthn Hemisphere). It's of the traditional kind, hard rimmed and solid; it's seen better days but is still quite wearable and fits me to a tee. It's a pity my great-grandfather's sola topee is no longer fit for use, last worn around 1857 - 60 in India. Looks like it saw heavy duty wear. I'm always cautious around it, knowing he caught cholera, and I harbour fears it may still be lurking in the fibres! 😂
But as far as the bowler is concerned, it seems to be apt at the moment, my being 72 and humbled somewhat by sciatica, that a walking cane might be a good match. I've had it in mind for a few months now, and have decided that a vintage model in good, sturdy condition would be ideal. I think short walks where I'm not likely to need both hands free would be the thing, or for longer strolls but probably not for shopping expeditions or where I expect to be carrying parcels and bags. Umbrellas are annoying enough!