How to Convert a Spear Into a Hiking Pole
In traditional indigenous cultures, the distinction between a spear and a basic staff was one specific part: the point. Today's spears come in a variety of fashions, from the metal-tipped Chinese spears used in kung fu practice to a replica of a Spartan spear or javelin. With some minor alterations, practically anyone can make the necessary transition between a spear and a sturdy hiking staff.
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Things You'll Need
- Spear
- Carpenter's vise or C-clamp
- Towel
- Measuring tape
- Pencil or marker
- Miter-box saw
- Safety glasses
- Belt sander or sand paper of coarse or medium grade
- Rotary tool with carbide burr (optional)
Instructions
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Clamp or otherwise secure your spear to a solid object, preferably a table or work bench or some kind. Tighten a carpenter's vise or C-clamp around the shaft and fasten it to the surface of your object while adding a towel to prevent scratching the shaft.
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2
Measure the distance between the floor and your armpit by stepping on the metal clip at the end of the measuring tape and raising the tape unit to your armpit. Add two or three inches from this number, depending on the desired length of your walking stick.
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3
Measure your desired staff length on your spear, starting at the butt-end or the opposite end from the point or blade. Add 1/8th of an inch for blade width and mark the length on the spear with a solid line using a pencil or marker.
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4
Unclasp the spear and cut it at the designated mark using a miter-box saw. Test the length of your new hiking pole and make shortening adjustments with the saw as needed or until satisfied with the staff length.
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5
Sand the edges of the cutting point using the belt sander or sand paper in order to smooth out the ends of your spear.
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6
Use a rotary tool to carve any additional designs or decorations into the hiking pole.
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Tips & Warnings
Always wear safety goggles when using a miter-box saw or any other power tool device, as the flying sawdust could cause tremendous long-term damage to the eyes.
