Different Types of Gags

1. Cleave Gag

The cleave gag is a true classic, and it comes with many variations.

The simplest version consists of a piece of cloth tightly pulled between the teeth, slightly distorting the cheeks. While this already looks great, I almost never use a plain cleave gag. I prefer to first pack the mouth with something: a handkerchief, a sponge, one or several pairs of panties, socks… you can get quite creative here.

Once the mouth is filled, the cleave gag is tightly tied over it. This helps keep the packing compressed inside the mouth. Aesthetically, it’s often more beautiful than it is truly effective at silencing, but it remains one of my favorites for its classic look.

An improved variation is the knotted cleave gag. By placing a knot right in the center of the cloth (pressed against or between the teeth), it becomes much harder for the model to push or spit out the packing. This small detail significantly increases the effectiveness of the gag.

2. Over-the-Mouth (OTM) / Detective Gag

The OTM gag (also sometimes called a “detective gag”) is a strip of cloth or tape placed horizontally over the mouth.

I almost never use it on its own. I always start by packing the mouth (or at least filling the cheeks with a sponge) and applying a cleave gag first. Only then do I add the OTM layer on top. This combination creates a much more secure and effective silencing method while still looking very classic and elegant.

3. Ball Gag

Probably the most popular and recognizable gag of all.

I own several sizes so I can adapt to different mouths. A well-fitted ball gag offers an excellent balance between aesthetics and effectiveness. That said, it should not be left on for too long, as prolonged use can put significant pressure on the jaw muscles and facial nerves.

I sometimes like to pack the mouth first before securing the ball gag. This makes the gag even more intense.

4. Pump Gag

The pump gag is extremely effective. Unfortunately, I no longer have mine… I accidentally left it in a hotel room after a shoot.

When inflated properly, it fills the mouth very thoroughly. However, extreme caution is required: over-inflating can restrict breathing, so it must always be used carefully and monitored closely.

5. Ring Gag & Ratchet-Style Jennings Mouth Gag

I don’t currently own a classic ring gag in my collection. I used to have a ratchet-style Jennings mouth gag, which forces the mouth wide open in a very clinical and restrictive way. Both types create a completely different aesthetic and sensation compared to traditional silencing gags.

6. Tape Gags

Tape is not my favorite method.

There are many variations, but I usually microfoam tape. From the model’s perspective, tape is often the most uncomfortable option: adhesive residue can irritate the skin, and it can pull on hair when removed. There are non-adhesive alternatives, but they usually look less clean and elegant.

I’m still experimenting to find a tape-based gag method that I’m fully satisfied with.

7. Multilayer Gags

This is where creativity really comes into play.

By combining several techniques — packing + cleave + OTM + tape, or ball gag under layers of tape, etc. — you can create highly restrictive and visually impressive gags. The only limit is your imagination.

Here’s a freestyle video that illustrates this approach particularly well:


I hope this overview was useful!

Do you have a favorite type of gag, or any combinations you’d like me to test in future shoots? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.

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