Walking-stick Weapons

Horowhenua Chronicle, 28 July 1911, Page 4

Walking-stick Weapons

Th ose who look with contempt upon a cane as a useless ■ornament and a harmless weapon evolved from the old-time bludgeon, evidently do not know much about the condition of affairs in France, where the Inof-fensive-looking walking stick may conceal tho most dangerous weapon. In France, the- carrying of arms is prohibited. On the other hand, the respectable citizen is frequently obliged to protect himself against the "Apaches." For this reason, considerable ingenuity has been exercised in concealing within the otherwise innocent - looking walking stick a most effective means of defence. To such an extent has this art heen carried, that one need no longer look with contempt upon the well-dressed dandy twirling a 'ight cane, for at a moment's notice lie may wrench off the handle of his walking stick and blaze away at you with a si.x-cha.mber revolve)'. Should this fail to down the enemy, he may use the dagger projecting from the barrel of tilie revolver for shortrange fighting. The difle is provided with a shoulder rest, which may quickly be unfolded and applied. .Another illustration shows a sword that has been drawn out- of a cane, so constructed that a single movement of the stick will bring out a bayonet from tho upper end. There is one form of weapon that might bo of service to the gentleman, but we are inclined to think that it would be of more value to the footpad. The stick contains an ugly black-jack, consisting of a rubber whip loaded with a heavy metal end. —Weelc'y Tolegra ph.