The cane sword, also known as sword cane or swordstick, is a walking cane fitted with a blade concealed in its shaft, dating all the way back to ancient Rome. With its hollowed-out shaft and quick unsheathing capabilities, typically by the unscrewing or tugging of the handle, the cane sword’s original use was as a concealed weapon of self-defense.
The history of the cane sword is an interesting one. From its origin in ancient Rome as the dolon, the cane sword would later emerge in 18th century Europe. Here it would gain popularity among the wealthy as a fashion accessory of sorts, useful for defense from thieves and criminals of the lower classes. Many years later, the cane sword would find its next historical descendent.
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The shikomizue, as the Japanese called it, was a concealed sword made to look like a bamboo walking cane typical of the time. These came into use in Japan around 1868, during the 45 year reign of Emperor Meiji, referred to as the Meiji period. It was during this period that the carrying of swords was outlawed, and shikomizue were used by some government officials and samurai of the day who were against the ban, but wary of the punishments doled out for openly carrying a sword.
Though cane swords are illegal in California, Arkansas, and England, they still find use today, largely as collectibles or antique relics.
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