The hard staff is simply a staff reinforced with metal heads. It uses the Spear skill to determine damage, and can inflict slightly more potent Blunt strikes than a normal staff. This weapon's defense bonus is significant. Not good for use as a solo hunter, but the hard staff is an effective weapon for blocking and counterstriking while your dogs tear your enemy apart. Like all spear-type weapons, the hard staff can be used for fishing, but it is a poor choice for this task. - Game Encyclopedia