Chapter 3: Traditional and Practical Functions

In addition to their many medical uses, a myriad of other uses has also evolved over the centuries for walking sticks. These sticks have virtually always been employed as simple tools for the wanderer, traveler or nomad. The simple, crook-necked model known as a "pilgrim’s staff" is both comfortable to hold and convenient to carry when walking. Its name carries over from ancient uses by pilgrims on their journeys to the Holy Land.

Today, these sticks are frequently utilized by hikers. In this capacity, a walking stick offers a leaning tool, a third limb for navigating rocky, steep or slippery terrain, or a handy partial substitute for a weary leg. It is also convenient for parting bushes, testing the depths of a body of water, or testing the consistency or depth of mud. Last, the walking stick can be an invaluable tool for probing an unknown location for insects, snakes or other animals that otherwise could surprise the hiker – perhaps dangerously. When not in use, a pilgrim’s staff can be conveniently hooked over an arm, a shoulder, a tree branch a chair, a coat rack or one of many other makeshift holding racks.

The model of stick known as the "pilgrim’s staff" can also be referred to as a "shepherd’s staff." Similar to its use as a pilgrim’s staff, this stick is traditionally used by shepherds in driving herds of sheep or other animals over long distances. It can also be used by shepherds to gather or corral the herd into a desired spot within a property. In this capacity, it is not only used to facilitate walking by the user, but also functions as a cueing tool for herding dogs, or even a physical barrier or prod for the animals being herded.

Straight or spiraled walking sticks are also frequently employed for hiking purposes, and many of them have traditionally been fashioned out of simple tree branches. This type of stick has evolved as well as "Nordic walking" or "ski-walking" accessories. This heavily cardiovascular workout resembles cross-country skiing, but lacks the requirement for snow. Because the ski-walker is rigorously moving both arms and legs while projecting rapidly forward, walking sticks used in this capacity are an inexpensive and fun way to an effective total body workout.

In the past, the walking stick has been utilized as a weapon in many capacities. True to its protective nature, it has also replaced the sword as a decorative accessory among gentlemen. In today’s military, straight sticks are largely symbolic; they are employed in many traditional ceremonies in which they can represent either a sword or a rifle. Military sticks are also popular collector’s items or gifts for active or retired military.

A straight walking stick, generally of dark color, can also have ecclesiastical uses. In the Eastern Orthodox Church and some Oriental Orthodox churches, a walking stick is carried by bishops, archimandrites and abbots when walking outside. Walking sticks carried by these members of the Church frequently have silver handles. Their use is mainly ornamental or symbolic.