the rum soaked fist: internal martial arts forum

Long time no post. But back again with a question:

Where can one get good quality waxwood spears?

We have tried several places, but it doesn't seem we've found top quality spears that have the inherent elasticity and strength needed.

My teacher has so far snapped and broken two in my training brother's hands, while parrying with his spear.

My teacher is Yun Chao Zhang, and we are located in California.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKVOF5 ... DXg/videos

My very best wishes to all, Tom

PS: This is the kind of thing we are using. It's OK but not great for form work. Doesn't stand up to two person work.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hYZoaEo2q6o

I purchase my sticks and staves from Frank's Cane & Rush Supply in SoCal.

From looking at your video, you might want to try 1-1/8" diameter rattan. It won't snap, and should be stiff enough for solo and form work.

https://www.franksupply.com/bamboo/

Good luck!

Greg

Give Dale Dugas a call. I know he has a bunch of these. Not sure where he gets them.

Just heard that Henan is out of stock, but Hebei still got them, mostly the gold skin variation, wippier than the silver skin. For US, no idea, but only winter cutting will prevent worms, be aware. Ours have lasted years now, no one broke any so far!

I used to be a shipping manager at Wing lam Enterprises.

I can tell you that the waxwood spears would come from a more humid climate and then sometimes sit for FAR too long in dock before clearing customs.

I.e. ..in the valley where our warehouse was located it was very dry. This could also happen for many other companies out there. It is common.

But it doesn't mean that the waxwoods are bad per say and that there isn't a remedy.

Solution to your problem:

Get some "butcher block conditioner" ... make sure it is FOOD grade mineral oil & natural waxes.

I personally use this (below) for my spears and long poles when they seem dry from storage or non use and it really helps to rejuvenate them.




https://www.amazon.com/Howard-BBC012-Bu ... 3735&psc=1

Merry Christmas,

P.s. or this minus the wax

https://www.amazon.com/Howard-Products- ... B004G6X0J2

Traditional Tung oil is also available via Amazon.

Thank you everyone for your helpful responses!

Have a great New Year!