Gear

[Sorcerer]

I have some gear questions: I just bought a wooden pole which I want to use as a staff form my Shaolin staff form. How much taller than me should the staff be? Head size? Shoulder size? Where should I cut it?

[yat_chum]

The length of the staff is a personal preference, most shop bought ones are six feet (1.82 meters) long however the traditional length for a short staff is from the ground to the users eyebrow.

[yat_chum]

Shaolin Qi Mei Gun
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BflyORlyuI4

[Inga]

Yes for White Crane sequences you want an equal eyebrow (the top of the staff is level with your own eyebrows) measurement. For Long Fist, the staff should be as tall as you standing flat footed with your arm reaching up, your hand would then rest on the top of the staff. Of course, one should be able to do any sequence with any length of staff, because you never know what may be to hand, but my understanding is those are the guidelines.

If you are going to do any contact with the staff (two person forms), remember that hardwood is best, otherwise you get a quickly battered weapon and splintering (not fun for sliding - ow) My favorite is waxwood. Diameter is 3/4" and should not taper at the ends. Happy practicing!