This item had been out of stock for over a year. It became available at the time I was rehabbing my knee surgery. True to its historical roots, it is both a functional cane and capable defense tool. The high density plastic is solid, comfortable weight, and has a nice wielding balance that tapers down to a 1 inch heel. I found the flat solid heel has a tendency to slip on hard, wet terrain. A standard 1 inch black rubber tip works nicely. For defense, the Walking stick can be used consistently with most baton or staff techniques. Professional training is preferable. However, this design traces it primitive origins of utility and defense all the way back to, " just use it as a club". I've used other Cold Steel products for professional use and have always found them to have quality construction and crafting. Nothing here to disappoint.