Whip Care

Using a whip – even a toy whip – requires not only skill, but plenty of room as well. Flicking a whip here and there involves tossing around a slim, flexible length of some substance – whether it is leather or soft cloth – and this can naturally wrap around objects, pull them over, and generally wreak havoc in a house or even a garden. However, out in nature, even if nature is only your backyard, there is plenty of room to swing a whip and lots of space for young adventurers to run and play.

The Hasbro Indiana Jones Sound FX Whip and DVD is meant to stimulate the imaginations (and delight the tastes) of kids from 3 years or older (or, as recommended by some – perhaps a bit more appropriately, 5 years or older). There are many young fans of the adventurous, wisecracking archaeologist, whose thoughts are captivated by the exotic locations, bizarre booby traps, and general panache and swagger of the films. The distinctive figure of the archaeological warrior, outfitted with his signature fedora, gun belt, and cracking bullwhip, not only provides these youngsters with plenty of entertainment but also broadens their horizons and piques their curiosity about different cultures.

The Sound FX Whip is a soft, fluffy, cotton or nerf-like whip which can be swung but is too soft to actually snap. This is a good thing, since the crack of a whip is caused by the tip moving faster than the speed of sound, and when an object is moving that fast, it is definitely unsafe as a child’s toy. This whip, however, would have a difficult time injuring a gnat, and can be used nearly anywhere that it will not get tangled up in fragile objects.  It is about three feet long, and features a rubber and plastic handle that is comfortable for small hands.

The handle also includes space for three AA batteries, which are needed to power the sound effects. Three batteries are included, but be prepared to buy more, as the whip will probably see plenty of use. The sound effects can be turned on and off using a switch. There are two effects – the Indiana Jones theme music plays when activated, conjuring up swashbuckling images of danger and adventure, and there is a whip crack sound when the soft lash is flicked, making it sound as if Indiana Jones’ bullwhip has just been cracked. This makes using the whip a lot more exciting for the young adventurers, and will keep them busy for hours.

On top of this, there is the DVD, which includes scenes from all of the Indiana Jones movies where “Indy” makes use of his bullwhip. It is a “best of” DVD of sorts, and covers all the best scenes to inspire bullwhip action in your adventurous offspring. Of course, it does not substitute for the movies themselves, since it only has certain scenes on it, but it is sure to prove a favorite with your children as well.