Although Tom Taylor and Bruno Redondo’s Nightwing run has ended, the new creative team is wasting no time in continuing the epic legacy of upgrading Dick Grayson’s iconic escrima sticks. This latest enhancement isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a game-changer. With a level of lethality unmatched by previous designs, it’s easily one of the most badass and unforgettable transformations these weapons have ever undergone.

Nightwing may follow Batman’s code against lethal force, but the deadly potential of this upgrade is impossible to ignore.

The second installment of Dan Watters and Dexter Soy’s Nightwing run, issue #120, is set to hit comic book shelves on November 27, 2024. Until then, fans can dive into a four-page preview that picks up where issue #119 left off—Dick Grayson fighting for his life against Spheric Solutions’ high-tech security system after a botched breaking-and-entering investigation.

While the entire battle is packed with thrilling action, one standout moment features Dick wielding his Escrima sticks, showcasing their latest upgrade: a highly concentrated laser capable of cutting through steel.

Nightwing's Escrima Sticks Now Double as a Highly Concentrated Laser

Cover B Card Stock Variant by Dan Panosian for Nightwing #120 (2024)

Thanks to Taylor and Redondo, Nightwing's Escrima sticks have received a slew of impressive upgrades. Before their run, the sticks’ primary feature was emitting an electrical pulse, useful for stunning opponents in combat. While this remains a classic and iconic ability, Taylor and Redondo elevated the sticks to new heights by adding window-cutting and suction capabilities and even transforming them into a grappling gun. Additionally, they introduced a feature allowing the Escrima sticks to combine into a bo staff, making them more versatile than ever. In short, Nightwing’s signature weapons have been racking up a multitude of impressive enhancements in recent years.

Now, Watters and Soy have pushed these upgrades even further by introducing a game-changing feature: the ability for the Escrima sticks to produce a laser powerful enough to slice through metal with ease. This new capability is unveiled when Dick quips, “I’ve got a new toy of my own I’d like to try out,” before using the laser to dismantle Spheric Solutions’ lethal security defense systems. Even though this feature is only shown in action briefly, its potential is undeniable. Fans can already envision a host of scenarios where this tool could come in handy—such as cutting through locks or other barriers.

Nightwing's Laser Escrima Sticks Speak Toward His Unparalleled Competence

Cover E 1:25 Card Stock Variant by Gleb Melnikov for Nightwing #120 (2024)

Nightwing may follow Batman’s code against lethal force, but the deadly potential of this upgrade is impossible to ignore. The laser’s ability to slice through metal with ease makes it clear just how catastrophic the damage could be to human skin, muscle, and bone. What stands out, however, is how simple it is to activate—just a press of a button. While this simplicity would be concerning in anyone else’s hands, it speaks to Dick’s unparalleled competence and control. Nightwing has repeatedly proven that he can wield even the most dangerous tools with ease and confidence, so the risk of accidental activation is slim for him.

Nightwing #120 is available November 27, 2024, from DC Comics!