
I bought one of their original Tantos back in 1986 (in California) and so have been a loyal Cold Steel customer now for thirty years.
I must say they have not let me down yet, and the new bo - or Training Staff as they like to call it - is no exception.
It is octagonal in cross-section and measures exactly 1.372m long (4'6"), tapering very slightly from 36mm down to 32mm - measured across the flat sides. It is smoothly finished with a light wood texture and feels weighty, with a slight spring to it. I can easily put all my 13 stone + on it - held to the floor at an angle - and it snaps back into shape instantly.
Although it is short, the hefty nature of this bo means that it is great for working out and it will have you sweating bullets in no time.
Although I have not really hauled off and smacked something with it yet, I am positive that it will do major damage to anything short of a fire hydrant. It is, to all intents and purposes, unbreakable. Trust me, I have one of their bats - made from the same weapons-grade polypropylene - and I know what that bad boy can do!
Just in case you're interested in taking it hiking, a 32mm rubber ferrule fits perfectly on the slim end, but will need to be hot-glued if you want it to stay there.
I can recommend this product without reservation.
Have fun and try not to get arrested!