Wooden training weapons

Wooden training equipment reproduces the length and general shape of a sword, staff or stick without a metal blade. The group contains a curved dao, a tai chi sword, bo and jo staffs, plus a lightweight escrima described as graphite. Check the product material despite the broad category name.

The dao and tai chi sword have listed blade and overall lengths. The red oak jo measures 127 cm, while the white oak bo measures 183 cm. Staff diameters are about 2.5 or 3 cm. Individual product weights range from 0.15 to 0.85 kg.

Length, diameter and material

Match the equipment to the discipline and instructor guidance. Compare its length with the space needed for practice, and check staff diameter and weight as well. Confirm the stated wood, colour or graphite construction in the full description of the selected version.

• discipline and instructor guidance
• overall length
• diameter, weight and balance
• wood or other material

Surface inspection

Before practice, check for cracks, splinters, sharp chips and permanent warping. Remove damaged equipment from training. Do not leave wood in a damp place or beside a strong heat source. Match cleaning and any maintenance to the material and finish.