Rattan isn’t just tradition—it’s technology. This blog series from Eye Square Martial Arts dives deep into the types, treatments, and truths behind the most iconic training weapon in Filipino Martial Arts: the rattan stick. Whether you’re sparring, drilling, or choosing your first pair, this series will help you hit smarter.
📚 Series Index
Part I: What Is Rattan?
A look at the natural properties that make rattan ideal for martial arts use—flex, strength, and splinters.
Part II: Why Kali Trains with Sticks?
Why we use sticks instead of blades in training.
Part III: Can Rattan Shatter Steel?
How strong is Rattan? Does it have mystical powers?
Part IV: How to Choose and Care for Sticks
Length, circumference, burned, dos and don’ts for Rattan sticks.
Part V: Rattan Finish Guide
Skin/no-skin, lacquered/unlacquered, fire-hardened or not? What does it all mean?
Part VI: Stick Customization
Some ideas on how to customize your sticks for personality or make them more practical for your purposes.
🧭 How to Use This Series
- Start with Part I if you’re new to rattan sticks.
- Each post stands alone but works better in sequence.
- We update this page as new parts are added—bookmark it!