Getting Logs for the WM

[firefighter ontheside]

A 7/16 static kernmantle rope like we use in rope rescue will cost about $1.50 per foot and have a tested breaking strength of about 7,000 lbs.  Static means it doesn't stretch much, but will stretch some.  It just doesn't stretch like the dynamic ropes that climbers use.  The 7000 breaking strength does not account for knots.  Knots weaken the rope and the amount depends on the knot and the number of them.  What's good about the winch is that you only need one knot to use it.  A figure 8 knot will break at about 80% of the rope's strength.

[Darrel]

So I'm thinking with a 2,200 lb. winch there will be no issues, no even doubled. At least not until the rope is pretty well worn. 

[firefighter ontheside]

Right.  Clearly you have better than double safety margin.  With kernmantle rope, the braided parts on the outside are just Protection for the core which is where the strength.  Abrasions to the outer layer are ok, but you have to look for damage to the inner part, sometimes seen as loops of that sticking out thru the outer.  Terminology lesson.....the kern is the inner part and the mantle is the outer part.