spectra or nylon

[EatSleepRunBike]

I'm looking for some strong small cord that I could keep in my camlebak on hikes for just-in-case/survival situations. I've been looking at the paracord and I like that, but Spectra cord is much stronger and I think that would be the better choice. But it sounds like spectra is more slippery than nylon, so knots will have to be good. Dose spectra get more slippery in wet conditions? Also, does the spectra cut easy and not fray too much. What would be the better choice? Again, this will be for very ocastional use. It would need to be able to carry human weight(though not to the degree of rock climbing), and yet be small enough to keep 50 feet of it in my pack.

 

[schill]

It's been a while since I've played with Spectra. I used to use it all the time when flying kites. I haven't flown in a few years so things may have changed with what's available now.

Spectra is very slippery (in multi-line kites, you want the lines to be able to slide back and forth across each other with very little friction and wear). It is difficult to tie normal knots that do not slip. I used to sleave the ends of the lines with nylon to make it easier to tie knots and still needed to worry about them slipping.

It also tends to be a finer diameter for a given test. Smaller diameters are not always good in a utility line. It's easier to cut your fingers running line through them if nothing else.

Again, this is based on experience from several years ago. Things may have changed since then.

 

[ryball]

I think Spectra is a pain to work with. Just get some good 550 para and be done with it.

 

[EatSleepRunBike]

Is there any spectra out there with a nylon sheath?

 

[kitelights]

Is there any spectra out there with a nylon sheath?

Yes - it's called bridle line used in kiting.

Everything that schill stated is accurate. Spectra's benefit in kiting is more strength with smaller line which means less weight and wind resistance. The premium kiting lines are specially coated (or blended) to have less friction when lines cross each other and are twisted.

If you're looking at larger woven cord like what Berkeley Point carries, the cord is large enough that slipping isn't much of a problem. Either cord, nylon and spectra will have to be whipped or easier yet, melt the ends to prevent fraying. 550 is softer and more flexible and IMO, more versatile to carry around "just in case you need it." I have both and I carry 550 in my various bags.

If you're in a situation where 550 isn't strong enough and Spectra is, you're probably gonna die anyway. :laughing:

 

[Coop]

how about Dyneema line?

 

[kitelights]

Good stuff, but in kiting not as desireable as Spectra. I didn't mention in my previous post, but probably the most desireable characteristic in kite line is no or low stretch. When flying multi line stunt kites, when you pull on a line you want instant response, not an elastic, rubbery feel and Spectra is still the best at that.

 

[Coop]

But the OP isn't looking to use it for kiting now is he?


He is looking for a strong cord that is more compact than paracord. Dyneema fits the bill. 50 feet of 250kg line breaking strength will take up very little space in a pack...

 

[dyee]

Spectra is stiffer. If it is used heavily, until it is as soft as nylon much of it's strength advanage will be gone. I would just get whatever is cheaper.

 

[EatSleepRunBike]

If you're in a situation where 550 isn't strong enough and Spectra is, you're probably gonna die anyway. :laughing:

Good point, but tying a knot in the rope will nearly cut the strength in half. But the 550 is cheaper and sounds like it is more workable.
I may go with the CPF motto, GET BOTH! It's about $30 to get 50 feet of both kinds from Berkly Point.

 

[EatSleepRunBike]

Spectra is stiffer. If it is used heavily, until it is as soft as nylon much of it's strength advanage will be gone. I would just get whatever is cheaper.

It won't be used heavily; and, as strange as it sounds, hopefully I will not have use it at all.

 

[dyee]

Spectra will also degrade faster then nylon when exposed to UV.

 

[cy]

always carry 25 ft of 7mm climbing line in my bailout pack. it's plenty strong enough to trust my life to.

you could do it with spectra line if you want to save some weight. but note spectra requires special knots to hold it's slippery nature. for instance triple fisherman is only truly secure termination knot for spectra. naturally that's what's recommended by rope mfg.

 

[kitelights]

Good point, but tying a knot in the rope will nearly cut the strength in half. But the 550 is cheaper and sounds like it is more workable.
I may go with the CPF motto, GET BOTH! It's about $30 to get 50 feet of both kinds from Berkly Point.

PM me your address and I'll send you a foot of two of the BP Spectra for you to decide before you buy. County Comm has a great selection of the good 550 stuff.