I use sticks for defense all the time ... esp. when overseas in rough neighborhoods. I would recommend that you get some training - but basic use of the stick is not complicated. The canes are also quite effective.

Thee's nothing wrong with getting yourself a long piece of rattan. it's what we use for stick fighting, and comes in a wide variety of lengths. Go onto the following Web site, and send the guy there (Nick) a quick email telling him what you want. Tell him Pete sent you. He's got rattan in just about every conceivable length and diameter (a lot more choices than what he's showing on the Web site). Something that's about 4-feet and about 1-1/4 inch diam should be fine for your purposes (dont get it too thick or it will be heavy).

I'd like to find that SAS umbrella ... but the last link from "Am Fear" was just a video. If there is such a thing as a durable UK umbrella - someone please post. Most modern umbrellas are just garbage and will fall apart after a couple of knocks - it's a sad commentary on the descent of the British Empire :-)

www.bloodsport.com

HAHAHA!!
Pete2