While the humorous and educational debate is going on about "to wax or not"...

I would like people to opine about changing trap wires with spectra...

Pro's and Con's...saftey issues....

I have noticed that high performance skiffs seem to be using spectra, is that where the industry is going?

Clear skies,

If I kept my boat indoors or out of the direct sunlight, I would definitely use spectra. However, I fear the effects of UV on cordage might offset my confidence in such an arrangement.

Trap wires typically take a lot of wear and chafe. Wire holds up much better than line to wear. This is why I always use wire. If you use line I would replace the line yearly.

Mike Hill
H20 #791

Switched to 1/8 spectra Jan 2002. Store boat mast up. Fitted braided cover to loop in contact with shackle. Just inspected whole rig in preparation for the season. No wear and line looks like new. Best part is no fish hooks. I'll never go back to wire.

Are the lines tied at the hound, or do you splice them around a thimble...?

We sometimes travel to regattas, and usually coil the shrouds/ trap wires on the tramp, does one need to exercise more or less caution when working with spectra....

Thanks

I've got mine spliced around a thimble and then the thimble is threaded onto a clevis. They are easy to remove/add when the mast is lowered and store out of exposure to the elements.

Mike
N6.0na #282