Club Obi Wan

this question has probably been asked before so forgive asking but, what is the difference between a 12 plait and 8 plait bullwhip. Who besides david morgan is the best to buy a whip from. I'm willing to spend up to $300.00.
thanks chad

chad wrote:what is the difference between a 12 plait and 8 plait bullwhip

The # of plaits refers to the number of strands (or braids) on the outer layer of the whip. With more plaits you get a more responsive whip but you also get smaller strands which are more prone to breakage. Generally, a 12 plait whip is considered to be the best compromise. It's very responsive and the strands are big enough that they can withstand some abuse without breaking too easily.
-Dittmer

Hello Chad,

you'll probley get a verity of useful information on this question,
there is a plethora of knowledgeable people on this forum,
.

I'll add my two cent worth,

Well to start with, as to the difference in 8 and 12 plait,
example: consider a steel chain, with 8 links, its flexible to start with,
then add four more links, it becomes more flexible.

In other words, the more strands a whip has, the more flexible and fluid like it becomes, therefore, a 6 plait whip will be more flexible than a four plait, and so on, thus making the whip easier to crack.

But, its what's on the inside of the whip, (the belly or bellies) that really decides the overall performance of the whip.

Now as to favorite whipmakers, and there quality of whipmaking, that will vary from person to person, who own a whip from that whipmaker.

Joe strain, Mike Murphy, Paul Stenhouse, Paul Nolan, Jim Markel, Robert D, Jerry R, these are but a small example of top notch, and highly skilled whipmakers, that make outstanding whips at reasonable prices.

there are many, many, more to be sure,
(I'm a poet and don't know it) that I haven't mentioned, that lurk this forum undoubtedly, that make truly amazing whips.

Whew! sorry bout all the fatchewing .

Hope that helps,

All the best.

Jim J.