Robi,
I'd love to see how the spectra turned out. I'll keep an eye on this thread for when you get some posted.

-Rob V.

I simply coated my dogbones with tool-dip from the hardware store. That's the rubber stuff used to coat plier handles. No teeth chipped yet.

I prefer this style of 'bone, as it is really easy to grip and hook into either end:
http://store.catsailor.com/tek9.asp?pg=products&specific=jmorfmnqr4
I tie to the top, but some like to tie the trap line to the middle for a smaller adjustment when they switch ends.

Here are the photos

How safe is it though?
There isnt much to hold onto, have you ever tried to release it under load?

As far as safety goes, I cannot speak, because I have not found myself in a position where releasing it is a huge concern. Yet again, I am extremely comfortable with the ocean and being extended periods of time under water. That said, I will not talk about safety. What I think is safe maybe is not safe for others.

As far as releasing under a load, I have released it under a load and it releases just fine. In this case you just grab onto the line, instead of a handle or the dog bone itself and release just like a regular trap system.

At first I thought the plastic tubing would have more friction on the harness hook, but so far I have not noticed an increase in friction. So releasing it from the harness is effortless and easy.
<img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Thanks for the pics, Robi. I think I am going to try that next time I need to replace the trap lines. I just set them up with new spectra so it will probably be next summer. I may test it out on my son's trap since he always has problems with getting his height adjusted properly. It looks like it would be easier to adjust.

-Rob V.

Simple stainless steel or titanium rings 2" - 3" diameter work really well on the end of the line too.

For adjustable lengths: I had gone ahead and invested in a system similar to this one:

http://store.catsailor.com/tek9.asp?pg=products&specific=jndrgpdmi0

I assume it is targeted at serious racers where any bit of extra leverage counts.

Once sailing with an inexperienced crew, the adjustable line became uncleated, and the crew went swimming. Of course there was wind and waves adding to the excitement. I now prefer the non-adjustable setup, avoiding worries about losing someone.

Bear in mind that the setup I was using only LOOKED like the one Rick sells.

H77

Robi,
I used this system myself and I found a larger loop makes it easier and therefore quicker to hook up.
Never had any issues unhooking.

Only real issue is that is will fail eventually. I think it must be the fibres cutting one another where the hook loads up the line. Replace the line once a season and this can most likely be avoided.

Regards,
Phill

H77,
I have the fiddle blocks for an adjustable setup but I removed them after I almost went for a swim while singlehanding <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" /> (Thank God for stop knots). I also heard a story of a sailor who almost lost their thumb when it got caught in the block during an emergency maneuver. I think it was one of HobieGary's friends. I know there was a story written about it on TheBeachcats.com, but I couldn't find it.

-Rob V.