Late 19th / Early 20th Century, Bamboo Cane Drill / Spike Cane with Concealed Steel Blade, T-Form Wooden Handle

*Late 19th / Early 20th Century, Bamboo Cane Drill / Spike Cane with Concealed Steel Blade, T-Form Wooden Handle*

An unusual late 19th to early 20th century bamboo walking cane incorporating a concealed steel spike / drill blade, fitted with a shaped T-form wooden handle, brass collar and ferrule, and natural bamboo shaft forming the outer case. The handle unscrews to reveal a long, narrow steel blade of flattened diamond section, tapering to a forged point. The end is not sharpened like a dagger, but formed more as a spike or boring point, suggesting use as a cane drill, probing spike, or utilitarian concealed tool rather than a true fighting swordstick.

The cane body is made from natural bamboo with metal mounts at both ends, the lower section acting as the scabbard for the internal blade. The grip is a well-shaped wooden T-handle, giving the piece the outward appearance of a gentleman’s walking stick when assembled. Cane drills and spike canes of this type were produced in Europe during the late Victorian and Edwardian period, sometimes for practical field use, walking, or novelty concealed implements, and are occasionally encountered alongside swordsticks but are generally more utilitarian in construction.

Approx. Measurements – Blade length: 54.5 cm. Overall length without cane: 62 cm. Overall length assembled: 89.5 cm. 

*Condition*
Condition is fair to good for age. The wooden handle shows general wear, small knocks and age-related marks. The metal collar at the handle has tarnish and surface corrosion, and the brass mounts show age patina throughout. The bamboo shaft has scattered staining, marks and age wear, with a visible split along part of the cane body. The lower ferrule/cap appears secured with old thread binding, and shows wear. The blade has surface corrosion, dark patina and wear to the tip, which is not sharply finished and appears forged rather than ground. The cane still screws together and displays well. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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