The Magic Walking Stick is a children's short story by John Buchan. It tells the story of a teenage boy who buys a walking stick from a beggar - a magic walking stick that allows the boy to visit many places at his command...

The walking stick is a convenient and formidable weapon in the hands of a man trained to use it. With the carry and use of firearms and knives gradually becoming more restricted by law, the stick is becoming an increasingly viable implement of practical self-defense for ordinary citizens. This book by "an officer of the Indian Police" is an extraordinary example of a practical martial art text of the early 20th century. The entire range of defensive and offensive skills is discussed and demonstrated, including guards, strikes, combinations, counterattacks, feints and tricks, double-handed techniques and training drills.

A chronicle of the development of canes and the staggering variety of materials employed in their construction illustrated with over 1200 color photos. The dazzling array of hidden gadgetry and weaponry is revealed, along with useful information for collectors. Illustrated auctioneer's catalogs with prices help determine canes' values in the marketplace.