This was one of the first toys I was introduced to in the kink community. It has a great intimidating look, but it is really more of a light sensation toy that is suitable for beginners and can still give a nice tingle to the player who has seen it all.

This toy is also referred to as the "nerve wheel" after getting its start as a neurological instrument, but it's nickname is even more appropriate because it is a great way to inspire some playful nervousness in your partner, if that is the effect you are going for. Because it looks way scarier than it really is, this is the perfect instrument to lay out (along with some tweezers or tongs or whatever else you've got) in front of your bound and gagged lover before the fun begins to get their mind churning and curious. On the other hand, this might not be the first thing you want to pull out of your bag around someone who is already skittish.

The grip on the handle is solid and the movement of the wheel is nice and smooth (in time you can give it a couple drops of machine oil to keep it that way). With practice, this toy will feel like an extension of your own hand. The sensation achieved when it is glided smoothly across skin is akin to a blade, but it won't cut. When it is moved slowly or especially along very sensitive areas, it is more pin prickly. It is not usually used for scraping or digging into skin, and unless that is the desired action, be careful and get used to how much pressure is needed to achieve the gliding effect. I would highly recommend trying it out on yourself first to get a sense of how it feels before using it on someone else. On marking, the results vary. Some people mark with this toy, some don't. It depends on the person's skin and how much pressure is applied.

The Wartenberg makes a great, low cost addition to a sexy checkup or a full-on medical examination scene, but it's also hot in the bedroom for some sensation play or to wake up the nerves before a nice relaxing massage. You can even chill it in the fridge for an increased sensation, or warm it up on a heating pad (with care to make sure it doesn't get too hot). After play, make sure to wipe off any fluids, including sweat from your hand, and let it dry completely.

It is important to realize that this instrument is capable of breaking skin, even small nicks or pricks that aren't readily visible to the naked eye. For that reason, you should follow the same safety precautions as you would with any toy that could transfer bodily fluid: don't share it without sterilizing it. Boil it for at least five minutes and then let it dry completely to avoid rusting. If you're using it with someone who has health concerns, consider getting a separate wheel just for them (especially since the price range is nice and low). Do not put it in contact with anyone if it has become corroded or rusty.

The size is very nice for portability and traveling. I wouldn't carry it loose in a bag with other items since it might damage them, even in the sleeve, but putting it in something more secure like a pencil case will do nicely.

The Wartenberg continues to be a mainstay for sensation play and stimulating massages. It hasn't rusted or loosened despite coming in contact with sweat, massage oil, and water during cleaning. If it ever broke I would definitely replace it, in fact I am even thinking of buying a backup.