Extendable quarterstaff

Extensible quarterstaff are the most popular melee weapons used in Minama, both by security services and civilians. It's based on the traditional wooden quarterstaff, although the material it's made of is different. Its name comes from the fact that the user can compress it to less than 20% of its length when not in use.

Mechanics

When extended, the quarterstaff is hollow inside, allowing for it to be retracted to the central piece. Generally, the quarterstaff is divided in six rigid parts (although the number varies depending on the model) that expand when the user presses a button on the central part. In order to retract it, the user has to press the same button for at least a second while pressing one of the ends of the quarterstaff against the ground or another equally rigid surface. This difference was introduced to avoid accidental retraction in the middle of a fight.

Variations and damage

Several models of extendable quarterstaffs exist, with different abilities and "add-ons". Some examples of add-ons are integrated personal shields, a switch to turn it into a makeshift boomerang (allowing for ranged attacks), and an electrical component to stun the attack's target. There are other less important add-ons, such as clocks, maps, or other integrated gadgets. Needless to say, quarterstaffs with this later kind of add-on are not used by people who want to use the weapon seriously.

Legal situation

Extendable quarterstaffs are legal all over Minama, with some reservations. Civilians can only possess basic quarterstaffs without add-ons, with the exception of add-ons that provide passive protection (such as personal shields) or other non-threatening gadgets (such a clocks). Police forces patrolling cities also carry an extendable quarterstaff, and they are allowed to have any kind of add-on, at the department's discretion and with some exceptions (basically, no deadly add-ons). Finally, the army is allowed any kind of variation of the weapon without reservations or exceptions as long as they follow with the International War Ethics.

Item type

Weapon, Melee