Nick, Excellent analysis of the snubber issue. I agree with CaptnWil's comments. I have a couple of suggestions on how to achieve the elastic properties in a short length: 1. Use kermantle climbing rope (dynamic, NOT static). It is engineered specifically for for maximum energy absorption. 2. A parallel snubber scheme can deliver high elasticity at low load, while still performing when the loads have gone into the storm anchoring range. E.g., shorter snubber of 6mm kermantle, longer snubber of 10mm kermantle or 3/8" 3-strand. 3. An interesting option is the Hazelett Snubber. Bill developed for mooring applications, but should work just as well on the hook. I haven't had a chance to evaluate yet (Wil are you listening? <vbg>), but the elasticity curves are remarkable. A special polyurethane developed with Globe Rubber. Bill is at hazellet@hazellet.com in Colchester, Vermont ph 802/863-6376. 4. Industrial shock cord has also been suggested. Haven't looked into this option. Cheers, Steve ----------------- Stephen C. Darden Adagio Marine Ltd.

Steve, et al, Climbing rope should be retired after three (3) falls. That is the rule we followed in Outward Bound. That could be suggestive of how long you should rely upon kernmantle climbing braid. When we were training climbers on short climbs, we always used three strand twisted nylon because it had greater elasticity than kermantle braid. We needed that extra elasticity to cushion short falls which generated less energy. If climbing rope is used in a marine or wet environment, "dry" kernmantle rope should be used as it retains more strength when wet. Regards, Ron At 11:25 AM 12/1/98 +1300, Steve Darden wrote: >Nick, > >Excellent analysis of the snubber issue. I agree with CaptnWil's >comments. I have a couple of suggestions on how to achieve the elastic >properties in a short length: > >1. Use kermantle climbing rope (dynamic, NOT static). It is engineered >specifically for for maximum energy absorption. > <SNIP> >Stephen C. Darden >Adagio Marine Ltd. > > > > >