An Overview of Five Essential Grips in Stick Fighting for Self-defence

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Effective stick fighting relies on mastering several hand positions, each granting a distinct advantage in control, power, or reach. Here are five fundamental grips used when wielding a cane or walking stick:

1. The One Hand Grip

This is the most natural and common position for everyday carry. While appearing casual, it is highly functional for self-defense applications. This grip is essential for techniques that require speed and agility, and it is highly effective for generating force through methods such as fist loading and quick, whip-like wrist snapping strikes.


2. The High Point Grip

The High Point Grip is a fundamental two-handed position used for balanced offensive and defensive work. To assume this grip:

  • Your hands are placed relatively high on the stick.

  • One hand faces palm up.

  • The other hand faces palm down.

  • Both of your elbows are held slightly bent. This opposing hand orientation provides excellent control and stability for blocking and powerful striking.

3. The Mid Point Grip

The Mid Point Grip is similar to the High Point Grip, but alters the leverage for a more balanced feel.

  • Your top hand is placed in the middle portion of the cane.

  • Your lower hand is placed closer to the butt-end.

  • This grip is often compared to the way one holds and swings an axe, providing good rotational power.

  • As with the High Point Grip, ensure both of your elbows are slightly bent.

4. The Low Point Grip (End Grip)

The Low Point Grip is a power grip designed to maximize the force of a swing.

  • To assume this position, place both of your hands at the lower end of the walking stick, close together.

  • This posture is similar to holding a big two-handed sword or a baseball bat.

  • The placement allows you to leverage the full length and weight of the weapon, permitting you to swing with a tremendous amount of force against an opponent's lower targets.

5. The Quarterstaff Grip

The Quarterstaff Grip is a two-handed position that prioritizes symmetry and equal power from either end of the weapon.

  • It is similar to the High Point Grip, but with one critical difference: both of your hands are facing down.

  • Your hands should be spaced equally apart from each other.

  • Ensure both of your elbows are slightly bent. This symmetrical, palms-down grip provides a strong framework for long-range strikes and thrusts, resembling the techniques used with a traditional quarterstaff.

Take-Home Message:

Mastering these five grips is about controlling the cane's leverage, not its weight. By shifting your hands—from the flexible One Hand Grip for quick snaps to the powerful Low Point Grip for maximum swing force—you instantly change the weapon's reach, power, and role in combat.

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