Club Obi Wan

Posted: **Sat Sep 14, 2002 1:11 pm**

Hello all

This is, quite possibly, the first time I have posted in this section I think. I have never really paid much attention to this section as I was more interested in sorting out the gear. However I got a wested, my Fed is almost right, the shirt and pants I can live without for the minute (well not literally - but I can substitute for now). But the whip...

Well up to now it seems the only options seemed to be rather expensive, well at least a lot more than I am willing to fork out at this stage anyway (ie - as a student). But in the not so distant past I saw a post by Pyroxene about his local whip company and their prices seem pretty good for a started whip anyway. I know the quality isnt that of a David Morgan but I DM would be wasted on me anyway as I dont even know how to hold a whip nevermind crack one yet.

Anyway the only thing I am trying to decide is which size of whip to go for?

12 foot Whip Leather Swivel Handle: $53.90 +shipping
10 foot Whip Leather Swivel Handle: $46.92 +shipping
8 foot Whip Leather Swivel Handle: $39.80 +shipping
6 foot Whip Leather Swivel Handle: $32.91 +shipping

I am only 5'7" so would I be better off with a shorter whip? Do they look much the same length coiled up? Are different lengths easier to use than others?

Well thats my first post in this section over - hope you guys can help em out!

Ken

Posted: **Sat Sep 14, 2002 2:36 pm**

I would go for an 8 footer. For beginners that is an excellent length and for completing your outfit, then an 8 footer well look reasonable hanging off your belt. -S

Posted: **Sun Sep 15, 2002 12:59 am**

You might take note too that Pyro's whip is a swivel handle. He ended up putting a nail/screw in it to stop its swivel action. So you might ask yourself if you want a swivel handle whip, along with talking to Pyro. Great price for a starter.

Posted: **Sun Sep 15, 2002 8:05 am**

How exactly does a swivel handle work (I guess it swiverls, rite?) and how big a difference does it make? I could always just put a nail in too? Sorry for being so ignorant.

Ken

Posted: **Sun Sep 15, 2002 2:02 pm**

A swivel handle is just what it implies; it rotates on the thong. In theory this feature is supposed to make learning easier. Certain cracks, especially multiple cracks, require swinging the whip over your head in circular motions. With a standard "pro" bullwhip you have to get the hang of rotating your wrist just right. My first whip as a kid was a swivel handle. My son has it now. When I got my first non-swivel handle at age nine I recall it being a big adjustment, as I'd gotten quite used to the swivel. It was like learning all over again, as it affects the overall performance of the whip. I've been teaching my wife and son (mostly for my own amusement) on the ole' swivel and my Joe Strain. It seems to be working the same way for them, as in the swivel "spoils" you in a way. Rotating your wrist is a simple thing to get the hang of. I'd suggest disabling the swivel from the start. Using it as a learning tool is a step you don't really need.

Posted: **Mon Sep 16, 2002 10:35 am**

ArdethBey wrote:I'd suggest disabling the swivel from the start. Using it as a learning tool is a step you don't really need.

Yup. That's what I did. I put a screw in the handle to stop the motion.

Posted: **Mon Sep 16, 2002 10:54 am**

I'd suggest staying away from a swivel handle if you can. A Keppler whip is a good started too, but a little more expensive. Not everyone can affort a DM, or even a Joe Strain, but you'll need to do the "tweaking" above by Pyro and company for that swivel. I had a swivel years ago that I destroyed (another story...) but I was never able to get it to crack. I just couldn't get use to that handle spinning about.

Posted: **Mon Sep 16, 2002 11:08 am**

Well mainly I just want to get a look for the look, hat, jacket... WHIP. Its what I'm missing - and it looks nice. Considering I am off to university in just over a week I dont think i will have a whole lot of space to practise with a whip anyway so I am not too worried about the swivel handle an dif I ever do try and ge tinto it itls like Pyro said I can just stick a nail in. Of course, Minnesota, if I ever ge tinto it seriously, then I would just upgrade to a better whip , like a dM

(yeah... maybe after the law degree is finished and I have been working for a decade or two

).

Thanks for the advice. Pyro what do you think is the best way for me to order? since I am in the UK I would prefer not to phone them (Sorry, I'm a cheap student, well will be) - should i just write to them?

Ken

Posted: **Mon Sep 16, 2002 11:29 am**

I purchased a 6 foot Whip Leather Swivel Handle from New Braunfels Leather for $32.91. It's my "costume" whip when I wear one. I will take the camera home tonight to snap a photo.

I understand being a student and I would be happy to help you out. Message me and we can discuss details.

Cheers,
Pyro.

Posted: **Tue Sep 17, 2002 12:49 am**

Ken, once you crack, you'll become an addict and want more and more whips!

Posted: **Tue Sep 17, 2002 5:49 am**

Yes I can see it happening. I mean I am already spending money on this whip which I could/ should be putting towards a law book for my course... mind you which would you chose:

Whip :arrow: Law Book

Hmmmm.....

Well I suppose I can always just use the library

Ken

Posted: **Tue Sep 17, 2002 4:39 pm**

How long is a peice of whip?

What size is a portion of jacket? Also, anyone know what the crown height is on a section of hat? Just curious.

Posted: **Tue Sep 17, 2002 4:56 pm**

Thats the last time I try to inject the slightest piece of irony or vaguely humourous comment into a post!!

But, eh.. dont quote me on that.

Ken