Although a staff is hardly an immediate survival item, and wandering away from your initial location inadviseable; they are a usefull item for preplanned hikes and outings. A quick web search will reveal everyting from simple wooden affairs to hollow tube survival kits that would shame Rambo.A few notes; for level walking a staff @ 3' is fine.For varied terrain a staff that just falls short of your chin is best. a hand loop will ease the white finger strain of constant gripping. Just slip your hand UP through the loop and let your wrist support the staff in casual use. Aside from a personal support, they have a multitude of uses, from shelter poles to trail probes and lashing the Rambo commemorative to for that evening dinner of pig in the cave.<br><br>