Here is a little teaser. I try to cut the logest briars I can. To take the thorns off, you can use a knife, or do what I did. Put on a heavy leather glove, grip the briar and slide your hand down it. It will leave little humps where the thorns are.
![](http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp161/madcrow_2008/Blackberry%20Quiver/104_zps13f309fd.jpg)
Once that is done use a small knife to split the stalk. Its easier to split from the big end and work the blade down to the tip.
![](http://i408.photobucket.com/albums/pp161/madcrow_2008/Blackberry%20Quiver/108_zps9d8d9248.jpg)