Floggers

A flogger is a type of whip consisting of a handle and a number of falls or thongs attached to the end. Floggers are commonly used in a variety of contexts, including BDSM (Bondage, Discipline, Sadism, Masochism) practices, historically in corporal punishment, and in some theatrical or performance settings. The falls of a flogger are typically made of leather, suede, or other flexible materials. The number and weight of these falls can vary, influencing the sensation and impact produced by the flogger.

In BDSM, floggers are used for consensual impact play. The sensation can range from a stinging or slapping feeling to a duller thud, depending on the type of flogger and how it is used. Different flogger designs offer different experiences. For example, a "20-tail" flogger will generally feel different from a "50-tail" flogger due to the increased number of falls and the way they distribute impact. Floggers are often chosen for their specific sensory qualities and the psychological aspects of their use within a consensual dynamic.

Historically, flogging was a form of punishment in various societies. The tools used for such punishments often resembled floggers, though their design and materials could differ. In modern times, the use of floggers for punishment is largely obsolete in legal systems, but the term can still be associated with historical accounts of corporal discipline. In performance arts, floggers might be employed for dramatic effect or to represent historical scenes. The safe and consensual use of floggers in BDSM is guided by principles of communication, consent, and harm reduction.