I've been reading up on whip care and breaking in and conditioning; I'll apply what I've learned and perhaps have a real, crackable whip. I've been watching Adam Winrich's videos and taking it slow.
I thought I might invest in a pricier/sturdier whip someday, but I was in no rush; however, when Nebraska announced an upcoming local whip "cracktice," I thought maybe I should have a decent whip to learn and practice with. This one is very light in the handle so I don't know that it's the best thing to start with, in terms of technique, so when another member posted some pre-loved whips for sale at a fantastic price, I kept an eye on them and thought about them for a few days, then jumped. I won one and bought another, and it turned out to be more rewarding than I could have expected. It was like, oh, getting my hands on my Garrison Raider for the first time. Visually and tactilely stimulating.
This is an 8-foot Crease-N-Corral KOTCS in cowhide. Two weeks ago I wouldn't have gone for it because of the color, but the saddle tan thread won me over. Plus this was more for actual cracking than for impressioning, and anyway, any doubts I had vanished when I picked this hefty thing up. Being used to the light weight of the Wild West, I was surprised at how heavy this whip is.
Having virtually no technique to speak of, I'm really taking it easy and just trying to learn the feel of the whip(s). Today I had them out and with this one did a very easy, almost lazy Cattleman's Crack; the whip rolled out as if in slow motion and then POW!
I am really going to like this bad boy. As a bonus, it smells of cloves.
I'd been thinking about getting my son a whip for when he's ready, and cute little 5-footer won me over instantly.
It's cowhide in a gorgeous red color, substantial and supple. In fact, the other night the first thing I wanted to do when I got home from work was hold it in my hands. (Is that weird?)
My wife—collector of shoes and jeans and hats, etc.— expressed some concern about my having "so many" whips. What, three? Hey, I sold some jackets so it's all good. And just wait till she sees what I want to buy next!
I'm really beginning to like whips—I appreciate the craftsmanship and the plaiting appeals to my sense of order—and I'm looking forward to whipping it good!
