Signal whip
Signal whips (Signalwhips) are a type of single-tailed whip, originally designed to control dog teams. A signal whip usually measures between 3 and 4 feet (1 to 1.2 metres) in length.
Snake whips and signal whips are very similar in design. The most obvious difference between a snake whip and a signal whip is that a snake whip has a fall (a narrow, flexible, un-braided strip of leather) between the body of the whip and the cracker, and a signal whip has the cracker braided into the body of the whip. The fact that the cracker is braided into the body of the whip makes the signal whip much easier to control than a snake whip of identical size.
Signal whips are one of the most popular whips for use in BDSM play, as their short length and smooth action make them very controllable in a confined space. There is concern within the SM community about blood-borne diseases like Hepatitis C and HIV. Concerns have been raised as to whether or not they can be transmitted by a whip. Consequently, some people prefer a whip with a removable cracker such as the snake whip. It is however possible to convert a signal whip to accept a removable cracker.
It is important to note that even a small whip can cause serious injury if used incorrectly.
