When you first receive a new whip, whether it is one of mine or a whip by another maker, it is going to resist being coiled. Do not try to loosen it up by working the thong back and forth in your hands. The proper way to break in a whip is to use it as it is intended to be used. It will loosen up on it's own time that way.
I put conditioner on the fall after every cracking session. The thong should not need any conditioner for quit some time after receiving the whip. The core, bellies and bolsters are heavily greased during the construction process. This grease will last a long time on the inside of the whip and will wick to some extent to the overlay. If you see the overlay looking dry, it is perfectly acceptable to put a little conditioner on it. It doesn't take much at all to bring it back to where it needs to be. After greasing the fall, every once in a while, wipe whatever is left of the conditioner on you hand on the last 1/3 of the thong. That is the part of the whip, other than the fall, that takes the most abuse and needs the most care. You will have to decide for yourself how often this is necessary depending on how often you crack your whip.
The heel knot and handle should not need any conditioner. The oil from your hands should be enough to keep it conditioned. If the transition knot looks dry, there is no reason not to put a light coat of conditioner on it. I've read others say never put conditioner on a knot. If a knot is tied correctly and tight, a little conditioner is not going to make it come undone.
If you live in a climate that tends to be more wet than dry, a nylon whip may be a good choice for a second whip. If you think this may be an option for you, email, me and depending on where you live, I can give you some contact info of nylon whip makers.
Don't store your whip in direct sunlight and don't let it bake in a hot vehicle, other than that, they are pretty easy to care for.
Whip Care
