If you're getting into mace and club training, one of the first questions you'll ask is:
Should I start with a mace or a club?
The short answer? Both are powerful tools, but they serve different purposes—and knowing how they differ can help you make the right call for your training goals.
In this post (and the video below), CK Maceworks founder Nate breaks down everything you need to know about steel maces vs. steel clubs—from handle lengths and swing style to performance benefits and training variety.
👇 Watch the full breakdown below:
🔩 Mace vs. Club: The Key Differences
1. Handle Length
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Mace: Long handles available in custom sizes (based on your height)
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Club: Shorter handles; we offer both a 24” club (Bulava-style) and an 18” “Shorty” club
This major difference in length directly affects how the tool moves during training.
2. Swing Style & Tempo
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Mace Swings: Long, slow, and fluid. Great for developing control, full-body coordination, and rotational strength.
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Club Swings: Short, tight, and fast. Think compact rotational power and explosive movement.
If you're new to this type of training, starting with a mace can give you more time in each rep to dial in technique due to the slower tempo.
3. Training Variety
Both tools offer unique benefits:
With a mace, you can:
✅ Perform two handed swings like the 360 and 10-to-2
✅ Build shoulder strength and mobility with a longer lever/longer pull
✅ Train with a slower pace for improved motor control
With a club, you can:
✅ Do single arm swings like Mills, Bullwhips, and Reverse Mills
✅ Train faster, more explosive movements
✅ Use in tighter spaces and use as a travel training tool
💬 Which One Should You Start With?
Nate shares that he started with the mace because the longer handle allowed him to learn the swing pattern with more control and slower momentum. That said, some people prefer starting with the club for its compact feel and versatility in single arm work.
It’s honestly a toss-up—and it depends on what resonates with you.
We’ve talked to tons of our customers and coaches, and the split is almost 50/50. There’s no wrong choice. But if you ask us? Get both. The tools complement each other and unlock different dimensions of strength, mobility, and coordination.
🛠️ Built to Perform. Built to Last.
At CK Maceworks, we handcraft every mace and club in our Cadi Factory (Nate’s garage) using U.S. sourced steel and our well loved loading pin mechanism. Each piece is made to order, custom sized, and built with care and intention.
If you're serious about swinging heavy steel with control and power, you're in the right place.
🛒 Ready to Upgrade Your Training?
Explore our handcrafted steel maces and clubs:
👉 Shop Now at www.ckmaceworks.com