by Gadgetgeek » Sat 29 Aug, 2015 8:18 am
You do have to test each cord you want to use, and for dynamic loads, I'll add a half-hitch or two with live end, down onto the standing part of the rope, but I've had it hold very well. the size I have, I've used it with 2mm,3mm,and 4mm mammut static cord. It will hold the 6mm but only just. Its at its best with the smaller cord, the 2mm will really hold a knot once set. I've also used it with standard 550 para-cord, and it works well for that, because it compresses as it grips, it solves the problem of knotting paracord, especially when wet. I find paracord to either not want to hold a knot, or will set it in to the point of needing to cut it. This happens most if the knot is set with the cord wet, and then it dries. I think because the internal strands can tension up at different rates, it can be a pain. Because of that characteristic, it does make the figure 9 a good choice with the paracord.
One other advantage is that they are fairly easy to undo while loaded. Sure a stack of half hitches can be used instead, but it is simpler than rigging a trucky's and has those same advantages. Keeping in mind the load limits of course. No system is going to be perfect all on its own, but sometimes the easy way does work.
