The merits of this humble stick are not widely known, but it is indeed an excellent first staff for clerics required to use quarterstaffs, wizards and druids. It hits like an oak quarterstaff AND can be used with a shield. It can be enhanced with extra damage as the owner progresses. As a plus, enchantments and enhancements give no visible sign, yet work perfectly--a good way to dissemble, if you are so inclined. The one caveat: DON'T use the sleep spells!