Shooting Stick

Several years ago my son, Carl, gave me a vintage shooting stick.  I have treasured the item, and I have used it, though to date the occasions were limited.  In the position shown in the second picture, it is a wonderful seat for those events where seating is limited or inaccessible, and where one does not wish to lug a chair.  As a seat, it is quite comfortable, even after several innings.

Now I find, though, that it serves another practical use quite well-- one I had never hoped to put it to, yet I find that as a cane it is excellent.   The knurled knob twists a bolt out such that one can reset the height.  In fact, if one were shooting from a kneeling or sitting position, it could be used as stabilization of one's aim.  I have never used it in this manner.

The shooting stick was invented and initially manufactured by one William Mills, a British arms manufacturer during the First World War.  Mills was a very successful manufacturer and inventor.  He established the first aluminum foundry in the United Kingdom.  There he began the manufacture of some of the world's earliest metal golf clubs.  His fame, which eventually led to knighthood, was established by his invention and manufacture of a truly useful grenade, or hand bomb.  It is recorded that he produced over 75 million of them during the hostilities.

Among Mills's other inventions was the telescopic walking stick seat, or shooting stick.



The example I own has telescoping steel post, aluminum fittings, leather-covered aluminum handles, and a very nice leather seat which snaps closed with a leather strap, all still intact and completely functional.






I treasure this item, both the gift and the giver.


Sir William Mills 1856 - 1932  RIP

Notes:  The stick is in my possession and gets frequent use these days.  The information about Mills was gathered largely from Wikipedia.