When it comes to selecting the best bullwhip for your needs, one of the key choices you’ll face is whether to go for a 16 plait bullwhip or a 12 plait bullwhip. Both types of whips offer their own unique advantages, and the choice largely depends on your personal preferences, the type of use, and the level of performance you’re aiming for. In this post, we’ll compare two high-quality bullwhips: the 16 Plait Kangaroo Leather Bullwhip and the 12 Plait Genuine Leather Bullwhip, to help you make an informed decision.
1. The 16 Plait Bullwhip
Features:
- Material: Genuine Hide Leather (Top Grain / Premium Leather)
- Plait Count: 16 Plaits (Strands of leather)
- Whip Lengths Available: From 4 feet (1.2 meters) to 24 feet (7.3 meters)
- Handle Length: 9 inches, reinforced with a stainless steel core
- Whip Fall Length: Approx. 25 inches
- Whip Cracker Length: Approx. 9 inches
- Extra Features: Comes with leather waist holder, spare falls, crackers/poppers (worth £20.00), and wrist strap for control
The 16 Plait Bullwhip is a premium whip, made from high-quality kangaroo leather. Its 16 strands of leather provide a smooth, durable, and aesthetically pleasing design. The additional plaits enhance the overall durability and flexibility of the whip, making it suitable for both professional and recreational use. One of the most notable features of this whip is the loud cracking sound it produces, which is ideal for those who need maximum noise and impact during use.
Because of the additional strands, the 16 Plait whip offers greater strength and is better suited for demanding tasks or high-performance use, such as whip cracking competitions or professional training. Additionally, the reinforced handle and the included accessories like the spare falls and crackers/poppers make this whip a versatile option, providing everything you need right out of the box.
Best For:
- Professional whip crackers
- Long-lasting performance
- Those who prioritize durability and loud cracks
2. The 12 Plait Bullwhip
Features:
- Material: 100% Genuine Leather (Top Grain / Premium Leather)
- Plait Count: 12 Plaits (Strands of leather)
- Whip Length: 4 feet (1.21 meters) (with other sizes available)
- Handle Length: 9 inches, durable core
- Whip Fall Length: Approx. 16 inches
- Whip Cracker Length: Approx. 12 inches
- Extra Features: Comes with leather waist holder, wrist strap for easy control, and loop for hanging storage
The 12 Plait Bullwhip offers a more affordable option without sacrificing performance. Made from high-quality genuine leather, this whip provides a beautiful finish and is highly flexible, durable, and easy to control. With fewer strands (12 instead of 16), this whip may not produce as loud a crack as the 16 Plait version but still delivers solid performance for both recreational and professional use. The length of the whip and its balanced handle make it easy to maneuver, especially for beginners or those who are looking for a lighter, less expensive option.
Although the cracking sound is not as sharp or loud as the 16 Plait whip, the 12 Plait Bullwhip still delivers a satisfying crack for most users. It’s particularly great for novices, those practicing at home, or individuals who don’t need the extreme durability that a 16 Plait whip provides.
Best For:
- Beginners or intermediate whip crackers
- Recreational users
- Those looking for a more affordable, still high-quality whip
Comparison: 16 Plait vs 12 Plait
Which Bullwhip Should You Choose?
- Go with the 16 Plait Bullwhip if you’re looking for superior durability, a loud cracking sound, and if you plan on using the whip professionally or in high-performance settings.
- Go with the 12 Plait Bullwhip if you’re a beginner, intermediate user, or simply need a more affordable option that still offers great performance and reliability.
Once you’ve selected the perfect bullwhip, the next step is learning how to break it in properly and master your technique. A well-conditioned whip performs better, lasts longer, and delivers cleaner, sharper cracks. If you’re looking for expert guidance on breaking in your bullwhip and improving your handling skills, I highly recommend checking out this in-depth guide: Breaking in a Bullwhip and Mastering Your Whip.
Whether you’re cracking for fun, training, or competing, either whip will serve you well. For the ultimate in strength, crack sound, and durability, the 16 Plait Bullwhip is the top choice. However, for budget-conscious users or beginners, the 12 Plait Bullwhip remains a fantastic option that doesn’t skimp on quality.
Happy cracking!
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