My understanding is that there were possibly 3 major suppliers of canes to English schools, two based in London and one in the north, and a number of small producers. School canes could vary in both length and thickness with stouter models intended for older pupils. Ironmongers often supplied canes although most were supplied direct from the makers. Bamboo was less suitable as it was inflexible and could easily split during use. Rattan was much preferred as it was solid yet flexible and, I believe, very effective. I wonder how the proportion of straight canes used varied from those with a crook handle? I have never seen nor felt the cane so I depend on the views of the experienced!
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