Robert Gage wrote:Jeff, I'd be interested to know what you think of the Brian Nemeth stockwhip I sent you. Even if you think it's rubbish, I'd still be interested to hear. (It's possible you've already posted something, and I've missed it....)
Here is what I posted, it was in a Daily Roll Call:
Hey all!
Today has been steady so I took a late lunch as usual. Shortly before I received a whip from Robert Gage for the Dog Shelter Raffle. I took about 15 minutes to test it out at my nearby park. It is a 6x8plait Australian stockwhip made by Brian Nemeth. He has an unusual handle style/grip. It kind of bulges and the knob is slightly flattened and oversized. The handle is made from steel lined cane and has a slight taper to it. It is a bit heavy (I think) for the whip. The whip itself is 6ft with a redhide core, belly, and an 8plait thong. Strands taper all the way to the fall knot ending with 8 strands. The fall is made of redhide also and the popper is nylon.
Overall the whip cracks well, if not a bit "softly". The handle style is different than what I am used to. Normally the knob would rest in the palm of my hand. I find that difficult and uncomfortable with this whip. I might try a different handle to see how that changes performance. One other note about the handle, the end of the steel lined cane is exposed under the keeper. This might cause undue wear on the keepers. I usually cover the end of my handles with a small piece of leather to protect the keeper.
I must be doing something wrong when cracking whips. The fall was a bit chewed up after about 15 minutes.
Anyhow, thanks again for everyone for a successful Dog Shelter Campaign. Hopefully I can get back into the groove of whipmaking and donate next year.
Here's wishing you find time for the things you want to do, and for the things you need to do.
We see ourselves in our children and hope for a better future.
