This gag is meant to keep one partner silent, or at least non-verbal, during BDSM play. It'll work for anyone, regardless of gender or orientation, provided they have at least a passing interest in that kind of play.

The ball itself is silicone, which means it's non-porous and will not harbor bacteria. It's also free of potential allergens like latex, and harmful chemicals like phthalates. It's too big for the wearer to forget about it entirely, while not big enough to cause an aching jaw during short sessions. Wear it long enough, and soreness will ensue. I'm not entirely clear on whether that's meant to be desirable or not, but plan your sessions accordingly.

The leather is real leather, with nice tight pores like I'd expect in good quality leather, but it's on the thinner side and only finished on one side. As I've never had a ball gag before, I'm not sure if that's standard, but it is comfortable enough, and should be sturdy unless it has the misfortune to be stretched while wet, which will weaken any leather.

The hardware on this piece looks nice, particular the roller buckle on back, which in addition to making the gag easy to adjust, also protects the leather from unnecessary friction. It also features metal eyelets on each hole, which should help to minimize wear.

While the ball cannot be removed from the leather for cleaning, as the piece is held together with rivets rather than snaps, it would be possible to replace those rivets, if one has some skills and the proper equipment.

As for fit, the long strap with plenty of holes will accommodate many head sizes, as evidenced by the variety of stuffed toys that wore this gag while I fooled around with it earlier. In my opinion, it will fit any human sized head, as it fits plenty of comically oversized and undersized ones.

I acquired this particular item out of idle curiosity, and it exceeded my expectations. I expected inferior leather and a useless device that I'd quickly abandon in the depths of my toy chest. In actuality, I was impressed with the quality, and found it comfortable to wear. It definitely fed my fantasies, with the added benefit of not being afraid I'd accidentally blurt out something in the heat of the moment that couldn't be covered by the television.

If I had a partner at the moment, I'd definitely be willing to experiment further.

Silicone can be cleaned with toy cleaner, soap and water, or a bleach solution. Since this item is meant to be inserted into the mouth, be sure to rinse any residue thoroughly. You'll also need to be careful of the leather while cleaning the ball. Warm water will expand the pores in the leather, inviting debris deeper into the leather and eventually weakening it. For that reason, always clean leather with the coldest water you can stand. Dry it thoroughly before using it -- wet leather will stretch, and weaken. Since this leather is only finished on one side, that is especially important, and I'd advise against submerging it.

Once the ball gag is clean and dry, tuck it into any pouch, such as a cosmetics case, and stow it away with your other toys. Remember to keep the silicone away from jelly toys or silicone composites.

This gag came packaged in a plastic clam shell. The toy can be seen through the packaging, and it also features a picture of both a male and a female wearing the gag, so it's not discreet by any stretch of the imagination. The packaging won't detract from any gift giving situation, provided a ball gag is appropriate to the relationship and occasion. Try not to give one to your cousin at your grandmother's Christmas dinner.

The package contained no instructions.