[Manuel OKelley]

I keep seeing people swinging sticks—bad move

You thrust with them , far more effective and likely to hit your target. I’ve got a nearly 8 ft quarter staff and even with only minimal training can probably keep a sizable crowd back for a couple minutes

[Mariner]

Anything over 5-6 feet is too much.

A replacement shovel handle made of hickory or ash is perfect.

Though I prefer the Mossberg 590.

[polymuser]

I wear a 4B (Big Brass Belt Buckle) when traveling and in crowded venues. A patriot's buckle like this has a nice heft.