RE: A myconid head, inspired by @basilmarples
off-topic - but interesting. Well if you are asking if I can, then the answer is no. Not iron or steel, I could possible forge or machine iron/steel into a shape that can be used for trimmings, though fine details wont be possible as with a casting. Other people could definitely cast iron or steel and it can sustain a fair amount of wear and tear. for an endcap I would just use a piece of pipe though, if you want decorations on it you can engrave those.
Bronze on the other hand can be used. Bronze is fairly easy to cast and can take a fair amount of abuse. Ship propulsors are often made from bronze, and they used to make weapons and armour from it, and it wont rust. It has a different colour though, and if patinated black, the golden colour will still shine through when it get worn.
It all depends on what you want. It is definitely do-able in some form or other.
Thanks! Bronze sounds like a good idea, more in keeping with the look of the staff as well. It may clash a bit with the other silver trimmings I have planned, but worth considering.