When we look at Western stick fighting disciplines, the English Quarterstaff around two metres in length is probably the most recognised two-handed held weapon. In Europe its famous counterpart, though shorter and lighter is the Grand Baton. Initially it was a medium length walking staff that was manageable within the confinements of city life. It provided peasants with a serviceable means of self-protection and evolved into a folk stick-fighting art.
It maintained a strong following throughout the 19 and 20 centuries. Favoured by a large number of French and Italian military regiments as it encouraged 'fighting motivation' and set foundations of how to wield the Musket at close-quarters. Also, it became the adopted two-handed weapon of the Savate salles.
In the later half of the 19-century it was included in the British Curriculum of the Army School of Physical Training and the Amateur Fencing Association.
After the First World War, interest in the weapon declined. Fortunately the skills were kept alive in the Savate salles.
The rhythmic exercises develop co-ordination and strength. Pressure drills develop fortitude whilst the manoeuvres refine the combat skills.
The discipline has the foundations for the general appreciation of the Quarterstaff, Halberd, Long handled Flail, Spear, Pike and Bayonet. Improvisation methods can link it to various household and clothing applications.
In size it is comparable to the ordinary household broomstick, though made from a hardwood or solid cane. It can cause greater damage than by first impression, as the combat batons can be shod with lead, metal or spiked.
Whilst the Quarterstaff is viewed in four sections, hence its name, the Grand Baton is viewed in three. This establishes the theoretical base of how to apply the skills within the 'Boxwork' and 'Fencing' applications.
Generally there are three theories of how to grip and apply the manoeuvres. Whichever grip is preferred it will have a direct relationship on placement and the behaviour of the weapon. Though manipulated with two hands, it can also be used with a single grip.
Manipulating the grip within the principles of the 'Boxwork' and 'Fencing' applications is dependant upon distance and tactics. Offensively it can be used to clear a 'combat perimeter' or hit targets over several metres.
Thrusts are executed through an 'arming' phase to give strength and accuracy to the hit. Strikes are delivered by way of 'moulinets' that are applied from a variety of angles. Beats are short strokes that can generate sufficient force to fracture bones in the hand. Placement and intelligence play an important role in creating and taking advantage of opportunities.
Practised as a combat discipline rather than a sport, each phase of training is systematic and educational. This enhances learning and reduces the possibility of injury during practice. Like most stick-fighting disciplines it offers 'combative participation' without full body contact. It provides recreational enjoyment and establishes a base for improvisation that expands the area of self-defence possibilities. It is certainly a worthy weapon with which to be familiar.
