Constructing Bamboo Practice Weapons

[Makalakumu]

Has anyone ever done this? I've got some questions...

1. What type of bamboo is best?
2. How should I cut it?
3. How do I treat it before use?
4. Any tips?

I'm heading down south next week and my friend has a bunch growing in his yard that he wouldn't mind parting with. I was hoping that I could use it...

upnorthkyosa

 

[Blindside]

Are you trying to make something like shinai, or simply cutting the bamboo into poles for use as sticks/staffs? Are these going to be used in impact training or just forms training?

If you are cutting green bamboo, cut it just below a joint, and then seal the end with a lacquer. This will help retain moisture in the stalk for a bit longer. I don't find it necessary to lacquer the outside. I don't use bamboo for impact drills, it tends to fray and splinter lengthwise. But it makes really cheap staffs for a room full of kids.

Lamont

 

[Makalakumu]

Are you trying to make something like shinai, or simply cutting the bamboo into poles for use as sticks/staffs? Are these going to be used in impact training or just forms training?

I just want to cut it into poles sticks and staffs. I also want to use it for impact training. How could I prepare it to lessen the splintering?

 

[Blindside]

I wouldn't use bamboo for impact, I would recommend rattan. If you do want to use if for impact I think you will have to wrap it with something, the first thing that comes to mind is duct tape. I don't think you can heat treat bamboo like you can rattan (for toughness), and it probably wouldn't be worth it anyway.

I have used thin bamboo for cores in light padded sparring weapons (staff length), it has a better rigidity than any (light) manmade material that I can find.

Lamont

 

[Makalakumu]

What kind of plant produces rattan? I've used both and noticed that both splinter after a lot of use. My experience is that it just wears out. I like using bamboo because of the flexibility and strength. Good comments thus far...

 

[Blindside]

Rattan is a vine, compared to bamboo which is a big grass.

How much have you used bamboo for impact practice? I run through rattan sticks (1 inch diameter) in about 2 months if I am getting regular practice in. I have a hard time imagining a hollow stick of the same diameter putting up with the amount of abuse my rattan sticks go through.

Lamont