Although there is a nice diagram showing the basic bull whip throw, and some other basic info to whet the appetite of people interested in trying other Western Arts, the real value in this book lies in all the photos of  Rodeo 'greats' plying their art; providing a glimpse of a world that has, in some ways, gone. Tricks on foot and from horseback are shown, one or two with whips up to 80 feet long! 

In addition, there are sections on gun spinning, sharp shooting, trick roping, knife / tomahawk throwing and rodeo clowning - again with loads of excellent photos, some of them dating to well before World War 2; a time when the Rodeo was very different to what it is now.

This is a great book for performers looking for inspiration, or for anyone with an interest in past performers and the history of rodeo, circus and Western performance arts.

This revised version of Andrew Conway's Bullwhip Book provides an excellent all-round introduction to whip cracking, and is still the only specialist book widely available on the subject. You will find everything you need to master the basic skills and tricks, undertake simple maintenance and (most importantly) practice safely.

If you've just acquired your first mid-length or longer bull, stock or snake whip, this book is a must!

The book draws entirely upon the skills and knowledge of Australian whip makers so, not surprisingly, there is relatively little about the design of bullwhips and other types - although there are some instructions for basic bull and snake whips. 

If you're a whip cracker who fancies throwing a whip made by your own hand, or you can't afford the cost of a quality whip bought from a professional whip maker, the clear instructions and line drawings provided throughout this book will enable you to personalise the look of any whip you make, and (with practice and patience) give you the satisfaction of producing whips you'll be proud to call your own.

The new edition has been expanded to develop a hypothesis of two main 'strands' of whip development: Mongolian and Western. Although I am not sure that I wholly agree with Mr. Morgan's hypothesis, it makes for interesting reading if you have an interest in historical matters.

In addition, Indiana Jones fans will be pleased to see a detailed discussion of the design and construction of the whips used on those movies.

I feel that a novice would struggle to gain satisfactory results following the information about stock whip construction in this book, compared to the simpler and somewhat clearer instructions given for the first whips in Mr. Edwards' book. But Whips and Whip Making provides a greater depth of discussion about the interactions of the various elements of a whip's design; and about different approaches to solving various problems in making a whip. 

For this reason, if you have to choose between this book and Mr. Edwards', this one is probably of greater long term value to aspiring designer-makers - especially if their interest lies in designing bullwhips - whereas How to Make Whips will appeal most to anyone who wants to be able to make a decent stock whip of their own and is happy to follow somebody else's instructions. 

All in all, if you want a book that gives you a sound general knowledge of whips and approaches to their design, you won't go wrong with this one. Lots of photos are used to illustrate every section of this book; making it worth buying simply for these.

Focusing on the use of kangaroo hide, it goes into some detail on getting the best from your leather during preparation; whether working with pre-cut lace or cutting your own. I feel that this section is better presented than it's counterparts in the above books. 

Despite the subtitle, this book won't provide you with sufficient information with which to make a whip. 

If, however, you're looking for a text that will teach you the basics of cutting and preparing lace and making good quality flat and round plaited gear in up to 12 strands, this is the one for you. Step by step instructions, amply illustrated with photos, will guide you through each project.

The author does not assume any prior knowledge. He includes a short section on tools and thong cutting, as well as detailed designs for a basic quirt and a leather bag; and tips on making or decorating other items using the techniques in the book. There are some nice photographs showing practical applications, as well as step-by-step line drawings for each technique described.

However, this book will be of most use to someone who already has a little knowledge of leather craft and design, and is looking for ways to enhance their work / develop their skills. The techniques explained, will enable you to bring a new dimension to belts, straps and tooled leather work, to make distinctive crop and flogger handles; and to enhance the beauty of many other leather items.

The main topics covered are:

• Flat, Round and Square Braids
• Leather Buttons / fastenings
• Edge Lacing & Buckle Covering
• Handle coverings
• Knots
• Braided Appliqué

Rooted very much in the American, rather than Australian, tradition, this volume gives a practical insight into the wider uses to which leather lace can be put.

All in all, a valuable reference book that I recommend to anyone with an interest in leatherwork and braiding. I have a very well thumbed copy of it in my bookcase; and I still refer to it from time to time when I'm looking for a bit of inspiration.