Do you have a question about whip cracker/popper replacement? You’ve come to the right place! This guide is going to teach you everything you need to know, including when to replace your cracker, how to replace it, and how to make your own!
(If you’re looking for this information in video format, check out our Youtube playlist!)
What is a whip cracker/popper?
A whip cracker or popper is the piece of string at the end of the whip that helps make the whip crack. Typically it has a long twisted section that gets attached to the whip, and a shorter frayed section that flies freely through the air. The cracker of a whip can travel incredibly fast (upwards of 1200km/h!) Because the cracker reaches these sound-breaking speeds it tends to degrade over time. For this reason, crackers often need to be replaced.
How often should I replace my cracker?
There is no set time limit for how often crackers need to be replaced. Generally, if your cracker has knots, a shortened frayed section, or a very misshaped fray, it’s probably time to replace it.
How do I replace my cracker?
First, remove the old cracker by untying it or cutting it off. Because cracker knots are often very tight, you may find that a tool like a fid, awl, or long needle will help you get the job done. If you choose to cut off your cracker instead, be careful that you don’t damage the fall.
Next, slightly untwist the end of the cracker and slide it over the end of the fall. Form a loop with the fall and bring the cracker through that loop.
Pull slowly on the cracker and the fall to tighten the knot. Make sure that only the cracker goes through the loop and the fall stays on the other side of the knot. Pull tight, and your cracker is attached!
How do I make a new cracker?
Making a cracker is fairly simple and only requires a pair of scissors and some string. In the pictures below we’ll be using poly string, which you can get at most hardware stores. Paracord gut, kevlar, mason’s twine, and fishing line are also common materials that people use.
Start by cutting two pieces of string that are about the length of your arm. If the string that you’re using is smaller than 1mm in diameter (like paracord gut or fishing line), cut three or four pieces, depending on how thick you want your cracker to be. If your string is thicker than 1mm (like twine), just cut one piece.
Put the strings together and find the middle. Pinch around the middle with both hands, leaving about a finger width of space between your fingers. Twist the strings tightly together by twisting your hands in opposite directions. Then, bring your fingers together to form a small loop. Pinch that loop with one of your hands.
Take the strings that are on the underside of the loop and twist them. Then, bring them over top of the strings on the other side, and adjust your other hand so that you pinch the twist that you just made. Repeat this process over and over until you have a nice long twisted section, about 15cm long.
Take the two strings that are on top and bring them around the back of the cracker. Put them through the loop that you just created, then pull to tighten.
Finally, cut the untwisted strings at the end of your cracker to about 7.5cm. You’re done!
Do I really NEED a cracker? Will my whip work without one?
We STRONGLY recommend only using your whip when there is a cracker attached. While your whip may crack without a cracker on it, this will definitely damage your fall and put strain on the rest of your whip. Crackers are meant to help protect the whip from being damaged while travelling at supersonic speeds… and they also help it crack a lot easier, too!