I originally gave this item a 5 star rating. It was stylish, well polished and well designed. I have to modify that. If you need a stylish cane to go out walking, this is non pareil. If you need a working cane...i.e. one that helps you up from the couch or room to room, this is a poor choice. Why? Simple: the OEM put a high gloss on this wood. It is still glossy after usage for months. So? The varnish becomes a part of your hands, a part of your life. You cannot avoid it. With 24/7 use of his cane, everything starts to remind you of the cane. I finally realized this and substituted a dreary metal and rubber cane. It is quite a relief. It's too bad, as the cane is beautiful. Please take this to heart: for occasional use, buy this. For use all day, this is a poor choice to be avoided.