Well, from my perception flat, sturdy wooden implements, notably hardwood paddles, are more hurtful, yet also more satisfying since I want to be stung quite intensely, than belts, straps or riding crops, but that may be partially because my darling wife seemingly prefers them and feels more comfortable swinging them emphatically.
When a solid wooden paddle makes my naked buttcheeks bounce steadily with its resounding impacts, that strikes me (pun intended) as being a substancial spanking.
Perhaps I'm simply a classic 'Americana' traditionalist...

--C.K.