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.
🛒 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
🧰 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
🧠 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.
🛍️ 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
🥋 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.
🗯 Ready to Train?
Come try a class with us and put your new stick to use.
Cultural Preservation… with Bruises.