A hurley stick, also known as a hurl or camán, is a traditional wooden stick used in the Irish sport of hurling. The primary material used to make a hurley stick is ash wood.
Hurling is a fast-paced Irish team sport played with a small ball called a sliotar and a wooden stick called a hurley, where players aim to score points by striking the ball into the opponent’s goal while defending their own.
Below we’ll go into more detail regarding how hurley sticks are made, why ash is the chosen wood and who actually makes the sticks.
Hurley Sticks Are Typically Made From Ash Wood
Ash wood is renowned for its strength, flexibility, and durability, making it an ideal choice for crafting hurley sticks. The wood is carefully selected for its quality and specific characteristics that contribute to the performance of the stick.
The process of making a hurley stick involves shaping the ash wood into a tapered and curved structure. The handle end is typically thicker and gradually tapers towards the striking end. The specific dimensions and shape may vary based on individual player preferences and playing positions.
The use of ash wood in hurley stick production has been a longstanding tradition in hurling. It offers a combination of strength and flexibility, allowing players to handle the sliotar (ball) effectively, strike it with power, and control the trajectory of the game.
It’s important to note that while ash wood is the traditional and preferred material for hurley sticks, variations in materials may exist. Some modern hurley sticks may incorporate composite materials or synthetic components to enhance durability or provide specific performance characteristics.
However, traditional ash hurleys remain popular and widely used by players who appreciate the natural qualities and feel of the wood.
How Hurley Sticks Are Made
The hurley stick manufacturing process involves several steps, including the selection of suitable wood, shaping the stick, and applying finishes.
Here is an overview of the process, with a focus on the wood used and the specifications of a typical hurley stick:
Wood Selection
- The primary wood used for hurley sticks is ash. Ash wood is preferred due to its strength, flexibility, and durability, which are essential for the demands of the sport.
- Skilled craftsmen carefully select the ash wood, considering factors such as grain density, straightness, and absence of knots or defects.
Stick Shaping
- The chosen ash wood is cut into rough lengths that are slightly longer than the desired finished length of the hurley stick.
- The rough lengths are then shaped using traditional woodworking tools, such as saws, chisels, and planes.
- The stick is tapered from the handle end to the striking end, allowing for a comfortable grip and optimal balance.
- The handle end is often thicker and gradually tapers down towards the striking end.
Finishing
- Once the shaping is complete, the hurley stick undergoes sanding to smoothen any rough edges or surfaces.
- The stick may be coated with a protective finish, such as linseed oil or varnish, to enhance durability and preserve the natural beauty of the wood.
Specifications of a Typical Hurley Stick
- Length: Hurley sticks typically range in length from 30 to 37 inches (76 to 94 cm), depending on player preference and position.
- Weight: The weight of a hurley stick can vary but is usually around 15 to 20 ounces (425 to 567 grams). This weight provides a balance of strength and maneuverability.
- Shape: A typical hurley stick has a tapered shape, with the handle end being thicker and gradually tapering towards the striking end.
- Grip: The handle of the hurley stick may have a wrapped grip, often made of leather or synthetic materials, to provide better control and comfort for the player.
It’s important to note that specifications may vary slightly among hurley stick makers and individual player preferences. Some players may prefer customized features, such as specific grip thickness or unique designs, to suit their playing style.
Therefore, the exact specifications can vary based on personal preferences and the craftsmanship of individual hurley stick makers.
Hurley Sticks Are Often Artisan Produced
Hurley sticks are often handcrafted by skilled artisans and smaller workshops, making it challenging to provide a comprehensive list of major manufacturers and their specific models.
Here is a general overview of some well-known hurley stick manufacturers based on their reputation and contribution to the sport:
| Manufacturer | Location | Notable Details |
|---|---|---|
| O’Neills | Ireland | Wide range of sports equipment, including hurleys. |
| Ashford Hurling | Ireland | Specializes in crafting traditional handmade hurleys. |
| Kilkenny Hurling | Ireland | High-quality hurleys and custom designs. |
| Torpey Hurleys | Ireland | Offers a variety of hurleys, including bespoke and custom options. |
| Marlee Hurleys | Ireland | Handcrafted hurleys made using traditional methods. |
| Westside Hurling | Ireland | Hurleys with a focus on quality and performance. |
| Celtic Hurls | Ireland | Offers a range of hurleys, including custom and personalized options. |
Given that hurley sticks are wood and are somewhat abused during play, it’s also advised to learn how to properly maintain them.
Final Thoughts
It’s important to note that the reputation, quality, and specific models may vary within each manufacturer’s range. Additionally, individual players may have their own preferences when it comes to hurley stick manufacturers based on factors such as design, weight, balance, and personal playing style.
For players interested in purchasing hurley sticks, it is advisable to explore local sports shops or online platforms that specialize in hurling equipment. This allows you to assess the available options, consult with experts, and potentially try different hurley sticks to find the one that best suits your preferences and needs.
Ready to buy a hurley stick? Check out my article Choosing the Right Hurley Stick: A Guide for Beginners to help you choose the one that makes sense for you.