Not all rattan sticks are created equal.

Whether you’re a beginner in Filipino Martial Arts or a seasoned practitioner, the right stick makes a huge difference in your training. At Eye Square Martial Arts, we go through a lot of sticks — so we’ve learned what holds up, what doesn’t, and how to keep your gear in fighting shape.

Here’s a practical guide to selecting, maintaining, and respecting your rattan sticks.

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🛒 Choosing the Right Rattan Stick

✅ 1. Length

• Standard length: 28–30 inches
• Shorter sticks (21–26”) are useful for close-quarters or dual stick work
• Make sure the length fits your arm span and training style

✅ 2. Diameter

• Common thickness: 7/8″ to 1″
• Thicker sticks = more impact durability and weight
• Thinner sticks = faster, lighter, better for flow drills

💡 Pro tip: Beginners often prefer something closer to 1″ for durability.

✅ 3. Burn Patterns

• Some rattan sticks are fire-hardened or scorched for looks and rigidity
• Burned ends help visually distinguish training weapons — and look cool
• Decorative spirals or stripes are optional — but make sure they’re functional, not just fancy

✅ 4. Core Quality

• Straight grain rattan is stronger and more durable
• Avoid sticks with cracks, mushy ends, or hollow-sounding cores
• Flex test: slight bend is good, but it shouldn’t feel soft or spongy

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🧰 How to Maintain Your Sticks

🧼 1. Cleaning

• Wipe with a damp cloth after training, especially if used outdoors
• Let air dry — avoid leaving them in direct sun or soaking wet bags

🛠️ 2. Reinforce (Optional)

• You can wrap the handle or strike zones with athletic tape or waxed cord
• Helps prevent fraying and increases grip
• Don’t over-wrap or it’ll affect your feedback

🚫 3. Avoid This

• Don’t leave them in your car — heat can warp them
• Don’t soak them in oil — rattan isn’t hardwood, and oil won’t preserve it
• Don’t strike metal — it’s not a fencing sword

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🧠 Mindset: Treat the Stick Like a Blade

Even though rattan sticks are training tools, they represent edged weapons in movement and mindset. That means:

• Don’t twirl recklessly
• Don’t drag them on the ground
• Don’t leave them lying around like a baseball bat

At Eye Square Martial Arts, we train with purpose — and that includes respecting our tools.

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🛍️ Where to Buy Rattan Sticks

• Look for trusted FMA gear suppliers
• Ask instructors or senior students for recommendations
• If you’re local, we keep a few spares at the gym — come try them out

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🥋 Wrap-Up

The best rattan stick is the one that feels right in your hand, holds up under pressure, and reminds you every day that you’re part of a living tradition.

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🗯 Ready to Train?

Come try a class with us and put your new stick to use.

🔗 View Schedule and Sign up for a Class

Cultural Preservation… with Bruises.