From falls & poppers to plaiting & cracking technique, this section is dedicated in memory of Sergei, IndyGear Staff Member and Whip Guru. Always remember to keep "Celebratin' Life!"
Hey gang, today I received the David Morgan spring and summer 2004 catalog, and there is a new 2nd edition of Whips and Whipmaking!!!
Two major sections have been added, the development and distribution of the Mongol whip, and a comprehensive review of the whips used in the Indiana Jones movies, including the resurgence of interest in whipcracking inspired by these movies.
Paperback, 240 pp.
ADDENDUM: This is from the Cornell Maritime Publications website:
Whipmaking—the highest refinement of the art of leather braiding—is the main emphasis of this book. While the original text focused on the design and construction of whips made in the Western tradition, this revised edition adds two completely new sections. First, it introduces another major category of whips—those made in the Mongol tradition. Braiding details are shown in an extensive selection of photographs that also serve to document the geographic distribution of the whips; their historic use and characteristics are explained in detailed captions. Second, a new chapter describes the evolution of a whip design that became world-famous through its association with Hollywood. The whips used by Indiana Jones were all made by the author, David W. Morgan. The first movie prompted an immediate revival of interest in whips for performance and sport use, and the enthusiasm has grown with each new film.
2004. 240 pp. Illustrations. Appendix. Index. 7 × 10. Paper. ISBN 0-87033-557-X. $19.95
Actually, (gulp) I knew it was coming... For some reason I thought it was due in the fall though. He's been working on it since his last book came out. I got to read some of the proof pages he had. I think all of us Indy whip fans will be very happy with the new additions. It was good stuff.
I should send mine back to him to sign. It's the first edition, 4th printing. I bought it in 1982.
He would have to sign it on the front cover. The back cover is gone.
I mailed my order off today, along with a letter asking Mr. Morgan if he would be kind enough to sign it for me. I'll let everyone know how it turns out.
I just received my autographed copy of Whips and Whipmaking 2nd Edition!!! Love to stick around and chat, but I have some reading (and whipcracking) to do!!!
Does the book go extensively over whip cracking technique? I ask because I'm at a bit of a crossroads in my whipcracking experience, having become proficient in the circus, overhead, sidearm and underhand crack (the names they had when I learned them), and am looking for instruction on more complicated cracks/routines. I'm sure the DM book is a must for any whip enthusiast, but it would be nice to know where to begin. Thanks
Here is one I enjoy: Do a circus crack, as you are doing the follow thru, turn 180 degrees and do another circus crack. Continue doing half-turns doing circus cracks.
I also like doing Slow Figure 8s with circus cracks.
Most people like doing Fast Figure 8s and usually learn it first. The 2nd crack on the FF8 has a sharp, fast turn on the back crack. The Slow Figure 8 isn't that difficult, but most people jump to FF8 and never think about the Slow F8.
The book covers basic whipcracking, but it doesn't go into extensive detail regarding advanced techniques. My advice would be to pick up a few instructional videos. Trust me, learning to use a whip is easier when presented visually than put into words. The book does, however, feature a great chapter on whip care, maintenance, and repair. It truly is the whip enthusiasts bible.
Chapter 6 is exclusively devoted to the #455 bullwhip, and yes, he does mention the difference in the way that he used to make them back in the day, as opposed to the present evolution. Also included are cross-sections of the whip, with the various layers pulled back so you can see how solid the construction of the lash is. I highly recommend this book for all Indiana Jones whip aficionados.
For some reason I thought it was due in the fall though. He's been working on it since his last book came out. I got to read some of the proof pages he had. I think all of us Indy whip fans will be very happy with the new additions. It was good stuff.
