The original name for a shinty club is a caman.

The Traditional Shinty Caman – A Guide to the Gaelic Stick

The original name for a shinty stick is a caman (plural: camain) a word rooted deeply in Gaelic culture and language. Likewise, the traditional Gaelic name for the game itself is “Iomain”, meaning “to strike” or “driving”.

The caman is more than just a stick, it is the defining tool of Scotland’s national game, shaped by centuries of craftsmanship, natural materials, and the unique needs of shinty.

🪵 Materials

A caman can be made from any suitable wood, though traditionally the most preferred are:

Hickory
Ash
Birch

These woods are valued for their strength, flexibility, and shock resistance, making them ideal for the high-impact nature of the game.

🌀 Anatomy of the Caman

Bas (Gaelic) – The curved striking head of the stick
Cas (Gaelic) – The shaft or handle of the stick

🛠️ Craft and Shape

The bas should be triangular in section:
Both sides slope inward to meet on the top
The bottom is flat, joining the sloped sides at the edges
Sharp edges must be rounded off slightly to reduce the risk of injury

The cas should be:

Almost cylindrical in shape
As light as possible for quicker movements and better control
Bound at the top with thin leather or strong tape to give a secure grip

📏 Dimensions and Rules

A caman must not exceed hip height when placed beside the player
The head must be able to pass through a 2.5-inch (6.3 cm) diameter ring
No nails or metal fittings are allowed, all elements must be natural or approved

⚖️ Why Weight Matters

“A light caman is easier to handle than a heavy one.”

A lighter stick:

Allows for faster swing speed
Reduces fatigue during long matches
Enables greater precision and skillful play

This principle has guided shinty players and stick makers for generations.

🧽 Care and Maintenance

To preserve your caman:

Keep it dry – avoid damp or wet storage
After each game: Wipe clean with a cloth, rub lightly with raw linseed oil to protect the wood
When not in use: Store in a cool, dark place, keep it lying flat or supported upright to avoid warping

This is how a caman should be treated, with respect, attention, and an understanding of its heritage. Whether for a player, a collector, or a fan of Scotland’s oldest game, the caman remains a symbol of tradition, skill, and identity.