I find it a bit iffy to review this crop in full context. I am not as experienced at caning/spanking as others may be, but I feel that this was a nice starter. The initial look was pleasant. It had the cute red imprint heart as promised, and was definitely faux-leather which is why I bought it in the first place. I gave it a few practice swings in the air, and while it makes a great whoosh sound (that can potentially heighten the anticipation of the impact!), it tends to bounce right off and hit once more than something like a sturdier object might (such as a ruler).

I only tried it on myself, hitting my thighs first. I guess I had assumed it would work similar to the imprint paddles that Sportsheets has as well, and was saddened when there was really little to no mark on me in a heart shape (just the harsh red lines!). I then had a friend try the back of my thighs, and was a little disappointed in that there wasn't much to the pain. The whoosh sound made for some excitement, but I felt the strike didn't live up to the hype. It also would annoyingly bounce off the skin, and hit it a few more times in an almost pinch like manner. Non-novice users know that a good direct hit is essential, and something this flimsy of a piece isn't desired.

I do feel that the beginner of kink or even spanking/hitting/caning might actually like this. It gives the hitter confidence in wielding, and works the communication skills between the hitter and receiver. If you have someone not used to being a top this also makes a nice starter, but most experienced bottoms might not find the hit pleasurable enough. All-in-all, I had to give at least three stars since it would build up some confidence in very beginner wielders and perhaps sensitive receivers at a cheap price. I would advise them to "upgrade" once they got better, though.

Newbies should definitely take a few practice swings before getting an actual target. Use a pillow, or a stuffed toy instead :)