How To Buy A Whip

A whip or flogger is as personal as the person who uses it. There are a wide variety of whips, floggers and other implements to choose from, each one having a unique feel in the hand and on the skin.

The following are some features to consider when purchasing a whip:

Balance and Weight

An important feature of any whip is that it is well-balanced and comfortable in the hand, especially if it is to be used for long periods of time. A perfectly balanced whip should poise evenly on a fingertip with the fulcrum at the lash end of the handle. This reduces strain on the wrist, arm and shoulder as the natural pivot of the whip will be at that point. Minimal effort is required to keep the whip in a smooth and steady 'figure 8' stroke when the whip is well balanced. Some people prefer a whip that is handle-heavy, but this throws the piece out of balance and makes additional demands on the strength of the user.The diameter of the handle is also very important, and choice depends on the size of the hand wielding the piece. A slender handle will provide a stable and comfortable grip for a smaller hand, while a thick handle can cause cramping and muscle strain for the same hand. A whip handle should feel comfortable and secure in a light but firm grip. A good 'rule of thumb' for sizing is to hold the handle securely, wrapping your thumb around over the fingers (although this is not recommended as a grip). The thumb should reach the first knuckle of the middle finger on a properly sized handle. When you are holding the piece for use, the thumb should lie at a comfortable angle (approximately 45 degrees) to the vertical axis of the handle. Your own personal preference may be for a different diameter handle - always choose what feels best to you.

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Lashes

The lashes or 'falls' are the working end of the whip, and vary widely. Everything from string and rope to chain and wire have been used for lashes. For our purposes, we will deal primarily with the effects of leather lashes.

Flat Lashes

Flat lashes are even strips of leather of various widths, lengths and dressed ends. Generally a wider lash will give more of a "thud" and a narrower lash will have more sting. The length chosen depends not only on the preference of the user and the space available for use, but the control and effect desired. Longer lashes require not only more space for use, but a higher degree of control to maintain an even strike. The ends of longer lashes will be moving faster upon impact, and thus create a more intense sensation. Longer lashes are also good for "wrapping" - letting the lash ends wrap around the body at the culmination of the stroke. Cutting the ends (or "dressing them) can also alter the effect of the stroke. Angled, pointed and "forked" ends result in more of a stinging sensation at the lash end. Rounded or square cut ends provide a softer finish.

Flat Braided Lashes

These lashes are a wider lash, braided in the traditional three-strand style. Sensations' pieces are either braided with the ends intact (rather than cut and sealed) or completed with a finish knot. This creates a more secure end for longer wear. The effect of flat braiding is to create a heavier, somewhat rougher lash with a beautiful aesthetic appearance and orderly flow to the stroke.

Round Braided Lashes

Round braided lashes are made in four or six narrow strips of leather creating a lash with a circular circumference. The lashes are then worked and smoothed, resulting in a dense, smoothly finished lash that is very supple. Lashes braided in narrow strips of kangaroo have a hard, polished finish, are exceptionally smooth and supple. Lashes braided in heavy suede cannot be polished and often have nubby edges notable for leaving rows of fingertip-type bruises. Lashes can be braided in a wide variety of materials, for varying degrees of effect. Round braids may be finished with smooth, rounded ends or tied off in a small, hard round knot called a Turk's head. If knotted, the strand ends may be further splayed and angled for additional sensation, or trimmed and turned into the finish knot. Knots may also be braided into the lash at various intervals to create a knotted scourge.

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Appearance

You may choose a black whip of severe lines for the harsh psychological effect, or something trimmed in animal fur, horn or hoof for something a little more barbaric. A whip may be a romantic expression or a fun piece, and chosen for the aesthetic beauty of its color and intricate workmanship. Whatever style of handle and fall you choose, the whip is ultimately an expression of the owner's personal style.

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