In preparation for hiking in Colorado, I decided to put some work into walking sticks. I had picked up one stick in Colorado last year. The other one is from Texas. I believe both are oak. Unfortunately, I don’t have any “before” pics, but a stick is a stick, so I doubt any are necessary.

Last year I had already added calk to the stick from Colorado, as there were some cracks in it. Before that I had sanded it down. This time I wanted to add some English Walnut stain and to seal the wood with some urethane. The different tones in the sticks reflect the wood.

Then I added some leather strapping for aesthetic effect. I used the sealant spray on the leather, too. These are not handles.

I finally added rubber feat. I bought table feat from Walmart. Since they were too small, I sawed off all but the bottom surfaces. I then screwed them in, added glue for reinforcement. Then came the electrical tape. Sure, it isn’t the prettiest result, but I think the feat will hold firmly. I can always add more tape later.

I think these will make for sturdy walking sticks in San Juan National Forest (part of the Rockies). I won’t bring my pipe on the hikes. Colorado doesn’t need anymore fires.