Highlanders, particularly those in the Carpathian Mountains, now divided among three nations Poland, Slovakia, and Ukraine used to work in the forest with this unusual and ancient axe in the forest. It was also used in mountain climbing and as a lethal weapon. In skilled hands it could crack open a helmet like a nutshell or pull a knight off his horse. Now it is used primarily as a walking stick and in Mountaineer (Gorale) men's folk dances which require great skill to avoid a few chops in the feet or legs!

A highlander walking stick evolves into an art when the long winter evenings allow artists to spend time on more elaborate carvings that turn it into a masterpiece. For some the ciupaga became an element of story telling as each figure hand carved into the wood appears to have its own tale to recite. It is 33.5" to 37" tall and made of a solid piece of wood with a brass spear like tip on the bottom, which also has multiple uses. This exquisitely hand-carved ciupaga crafted in Poland is for decoration use only.

This may become a dangerous weapon if used incorrectly. Keep away from children.