We hand made this bullwhip from Top Quality Tanned Calf Skin, Top Grain Leather ("THE VERY BEST"). Long tapered strips called plaits are carefully cut to specs from each hide. Every set of bullwhip plaits are unique to that particular length and number of braids. Hand crafted by a skilled whip making family for over 35 years, it takes 4 plaits to make my low priced entry level whip. 8-10+12 plait designs comprise my Signature series Whips. The more plaits the higher the quality, performance and strength. Much more time and skill are required in braiding of the whips with more plaits. EACH OF MY BULL WHIPS COME WITH CARE INSTRUCTIONS, REMEMBER THIS IS NEW LEATHER AND MAY NEED MORE BRAKING IN AND YOU DO THAT BY USING IT.