Whip Basics. The Forum

I was contacted about 2 weeks ago by a fellow that works a ranch in the Big Bend area of Texas asking if I could make a whip similar to one I had made about a year ago. He has been using leather whips (I don't think they were kangaroo hide) but wanted to try a nylon cow whip to see how it held up in the harsh West Texas environment. The entire time I was working on the whip it was over 100F and dry, dusty, and windy, so the whip is already acclimated to the desert environment.

It's an 8 ft. cow whip with a 14-inch Bocota handle, chocolate brown thong, weighted twisted-tapered core, 2 bellies.

Mark, this whip is a true beauty, and really showcases your quality, ethic, and talent! I love it! You really have come into your own, what a masterpiece. Well done, sir. Elegance!

Thank you, Rachel, I've had good teachers here, especially you.

Great looking whip Mark.
He's going to be pleased by how it looks and blown away by how it performs.

Ron

This looks great, I love the handle!
Eventually I’ll have to order a cow whip - the other types of whips (bull-, stock-, snake-, performance hybrid) are common all around the world but these seem to be a very local thing.

Really great work, Mark! And I can understand how nylon holds up a lot better than (expensive) roohide in that harsh climate!

Wolfgang, cow whips do seem to be a fairly local thing - but perhaps not 'very' local. They were first used (as far as I know) in Florida, about 2,500 km away from where Mark lives! :P

Thanks, guys.

Well done Mark! Colours are spot on!

Thank you, Jyri.

I do love the chocolate brown as a whip colour, it really shows the fancy plait patterns up well, amazing job Mark, as usual.

Thank you Andrew, nice to hear from you again.