JohnKSa wrote:
If you swing the stick like a bat you have a much longer reach but it's slower and makes it easier for a quick and/or skilled opponent to get inside the swing.
True, and a good point.
Each situation (usually dynamic and changing) will best be addressed using specific “techniques/tactics”.
Therein…lays the benefit of formal training if you intend to use a cane/stick as a defensive weapon.
I can think of scenarios where grasping and swinging a cane like a bat…would be just the ticket, but would not be appropriate (or even possible) in other situations.
So…IF the person wielding the cane has ONLY that one skill…then yes, chances are excellent someone will get inside his defenses quickly.
Environment and the physical capabilities of the person defending themself come into play also.
Except to support yourself…a cane might be of limited value to you… if you are in a crowded elevator.
Conversely….give me a little room (that I can maintain) and I will choose a cane/stick to defend against a knife attack ANY day….(vs. knife on knife).
Then you have the matter of why the average person carrying a cane even has it. Odds are…they NEED it (to some degree) in order to support their weight or aid in their mobility. These will be the folks most vulnerable and perhaps those who would benefit most from training (geared toward their limitations).
As pointed out…learning to “Redondo” is very important…but harder to do with a cane than with Escrima Sticks. Still, the concept of keeping the weapon fluid and “re-striking” is a valid one.
Many folks are able to learn useful techniques, concepts and principals from attending “seminars” if they are available in your area.
It is a misnomer to think that you have to invest years of training before you can defend yourself. Of course, it is equally wrong to believe you will become “accomplished” after only a few lessons.
The point is: While it is good to have ANY weapon vs. NO weapon, it is imperative to
know how to use what you have, if you expect to successfully defend yourself.
One Trick Ponies….don’t last too long in the real world.