A Shillelagh (commonly pronounced "shi-lay-la" or "shi-lay-lee") is not a cane, but a wooden club or cudgel, typically made from a stout knotty stick with a large knob on the end, that is associated with Ireland in folklore. They are named after the famous Shillelagh Forest in Ireland, which supplied the Blackthorn wood for the original Shillalaghs of the 18th century. Shillelaghs are commonly categorized with canes because they are typically carried for long walks for protection. Our Shillelaghs are made of genuine Imported Irish Blackthorn Wood and are approximately 20" or 30" in length. Please note that the 30" Shillelagh is typically quite a bit heavier than than the 20". It is also more naturally prone to slight splitting - this is considered characteristic of the wood and NOT considered a defect. The natural bark has been polished to a sheen and the Shillelagh comes with a leather strap for convenience.