there's a lot to be said for both, so it comes down to a matter of preference. Personally I like cuffs. Psychologically I think they make a sub feel tied with no escape, as soon as the steel is snapped on their wrists. The fact that you can use the key as a further psychological tool is just gravy, you can hang it around the sub's neck, where she can se and feel it, but not get at it. of course you should have a spare key available, Just in case. Rope is cheap and cuts easily when you need to get it off in a hurry and the psychological impact is different from any other bondage material, tape or even wire ties don't have the same impact as rope or handcuffs. small chain does, and it's feel can be used by dragging the cold chain across the sub's skin. by and large rope is the standard, but many don't have the extra time to learn shibari, or even how to tie without damage, like cutting the circulation off, ties that go around the neck are more dangerous, for obvious reasons. a good bondage collar with rings lessens the risk, but doesn't make it go away, fancy ties are fine, once you have the experience to do them safely. AND you never leave someone trussed up alone. I know that's a well used warning, but even a shibari expert can have a rope slip.
One of the reasons I like cuffs is the speed which they can go on and come off. You don't have a half hour wasted on the ropes and knots, and you can go about the session, quickly and easily. I always use real police style cuffs, most use the same type key and they aren't like those pathetic cuffs they sell in sex shops, with the trick releases. most subs can figure them out very quickly and even the knowledge that they can free themselves at any time hurts the session. It's not about some idea of being bound, it's the reality of knowing they're helpless and can do nothing but submit.
