A nice length of sturdy hardwood for a staff or walking stick is a Real good Idea when one is out galavanting the bush,aside from all of the above uses,A Cold Steel Bushman(mentioned because I have&use one) can readily attach to,giving you a grand boost of confidence especially when your ears are seeing something,your eyes haven't yet!A hardwood staff can be feathered for dry tinder if need be also,Wood has endless possibilities!