Important Double Sheet Bend query

[Seaworthy]

@Inkanyezi post:55

@Seaworthy post:52

@Inkanyezi post:49

Back to the subject of the sheet bends, I too have found that properly used, the single is often less prone to fail than the double.

I have heard this several times now. May I ask how you tie the double (#1434 or #488)?

Always 1434.

If you are ever playing again with securing lines of different diameter could I get you to try #488 that I have always used? I have only recently become aware that #488 will not tighten into #1434, as I had always assumed it would want to. From test results I have performed #488 does seem to slip considerably less (not always indicative of the final strength of a knot, but it is a good start).

@Inkanyezi post:55

I have done security trials with both the Carrick Bend and the Zeppelin with different diameters, to see whether they can be used for such bending, and the Carrick Bend works well when the difference is not very large. So for two lines of say 3/4" and 1/2" a Carrick bend is secure, while it cannot be trusted for joining a 5 mm line to a 12 mm line. The Zeppelin is quite another thing. To join different diameters, just an extra turn with the smaller line makes it secure. It is such a simple knot and so easy to tie, that it must have its uses. I would hazzard a guess and say the vast majority of sailors are unfamiliar with the Zeppelin, using a sheet bend instead and it would be good to spread the word regarding the best way to tie this.

There is an earlier thread on this topic: The asymmetric Zeppelin Bend

I think I have a good contender then for tying lines of significantly different diameter. The Zeppelin with an extra final turn seems to be cropping up again and again as an option. This is really where I (and probably thousands of other sailors) flounder when tying lines. I think none of us feel confident with the double sheet bend for this purpose, although it is a great quick option when similar lines are being joined.

PS Good photo!