Can I use a walking pole for self-defense?
Though walking poles are useful for a variety of
purposes, fighting with them was not part of their design. There are rumors
of walking poles that have secret knives that come from their handles, but
most of these are simply rumors, and the poles themselves are generally not
used for any violent purposes.
Still, there is reason that airports do not allow
these poles on airplanes – despite their harmless purpose, these poles still
have a long shaft, a sharp tip, and can be swung hard enough to injure
others. Any pole can be dangerous, and walking poles have the added
“advantage” of a sharp, pointy tip that can cause additional harm when
pointed at an attacker. Walking poles may not be designed to be weapons, but
when necessary they have the potential to cause harm to others.
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Fighting off Animals
This is primarily true when it comes to fighting
off animals. Walking poles have a sharp tip and long stick that allow you to
threaten animals and keep them at bay when they look as though they are
preparing for an attack. Snakes, dogs, and other animals that may show
aggression to those using the poles can be pushed backward without having to
risk injuring your hand by pushing the animal away. Their sharp point can
also be dangerous, so if drastic force is necessary, the pole would be an
effective interim weapon.
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Fighting off Muggers
People that use walking poles for Nordic or fitness
walking may find that having one of these walking sticks, while not a great
weapon, is still a useful pole to have on hand in case you are in a
frightening area at night. Like any long pole, it can be swung at a moment’s
notice in order to hit anyone that may be trying to take your belongings.
There are many people that prefer to use their walking poles when they walk
at night because of the dangers of night walking and the prevalence of
criminal activity in their area. It’s imperfect, but it is better than
nothing, and adds a bit of security to those that prefer to walk at night.
Adequate is Better than Nothing
Unless there is no other option, walking poles
should never be used as weapons. They are designed for fitness, and not
meant to cause harm to others. But if you are going on a late night walk and
would prefer extra protection, the walking pole is still a useful tool for
fending off those that may try to attack you. And if you are out in the
wilderness and happen upon an unfriendly animal, the length of the pole (as
well as the sharp tip at the end) give you the opportunity to shoo away any
animals that may threaten your safety.
Walking poles are meant to be used for fitness, but
they are still long poles that are useful for emergency needs. If you need a
weapon quickly, these poles may work for you.
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