How to determine required number of strands in Paracord whip

[bearbeast]

So far I have been using trial and error: adding or taking out strands as needed. I have tried using the formula:

Diameter x 4.5 / paracord strand width (4.4-4.5 mm) = number of strands (plait count)

But this always gives me way more strands than I need. (Obviously each time the result will equal almost the diameter).

For example: 20 mm diameter -> 20 strands. I actually used 16 and it gave me a no gap plait just fine.

Anyone have any piece of advice?

[tomek9210]

I use this formula with different cords (smaller width) and it works fine.

As for nylon paracord whips, the general idea is to have 8 plait belly, 12 plait belly and 16 plait overlay. My core is +-8mm in diameter, 1st belly is +-12mm in diameter and 2nd belly is around 16mm. The plaiting angle is nice, around 45 degrees.

If you could show us your plaiting, then I could help you out. Because I suspect that 16 strands around 20mm core resulted in weird plaiting angle.

[bearbeast]

Hey, Tomek! Thank you for the feedback!

Below you can find an album with the whip in question.

Mini bullwhip - 6 feet. https://imgur.com/a/7UBWf" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

The reason I would like to find a formula that works for me is because I like to experiment a lot, like using leather bolsters, different number of bellies. So 8 - 12 - 16 wouldn't work in that case.

Cheers,
Bear

[tomek9210]

Did the diameter of this whip before you put the overlay measure 20mm in thickest point? I can see the significant taper in the handle - the angle on the checkerboard pattern changes a lot from the buttknot to the ringknot. There is a bulge halfway the handle.
There are tiny gaps past the ringknot, but it looks good.
The only major thing I would focus on on your next whip is to eliminate the kinks at the strand drops - they are visible at the last strand drops in the last photo.
Keep practising

[bearbeast]

Hmmm, yes, you're right about the ring knot, it was 20 mm in the thickest section. The 16 strands barely cover the transition even with the drastic angle change.

I will give the formula another try, Tomek! I am already working on a new whip.

And thank you for the feedback! I am still practising clean strand drops.