I strongly suggest that people get out there and try out a few tow ropes. I have both 100" foot homemade and a 60 foot Northwater systems towrope. Both are equipped with stainless caribiners at each end and floats. A sinking rope is next to useless in rough conditions. Clearly someone needing towing is likely incapacitated and reaching into the water to pick up a sinking line puts that person at greater than necessary risk of capsize. The concept of the biner is that you can paddle past the distressed kayak and clip it on almost instantly without fuss. The strain actually comes on gradually not with any sudden jerk if your towline is of reasonable length. The lines I'm using are of 7/16" and 1/2" diameter and the strength is more than adequate. The primary consideration is handling. The length to be paid out is to allow the towed kayak to be at the same relative position on its wave as the kayak towing. This minimizes stress and makes towing any distance much easier. I use an around the waist belt attachment with quick release buckle. I have seem some deck mounted arrangements but have been doubtful about their quick release ability which may be necessary in surf etc. I believe a quick release arrangement to be superior to the "weak link" concepts proposed. Again the best way is to get out in expected conditions somewhere safe (i.e. safe beach with onshore wind in rough conditions) and practice so you can use your rescue systems with ease and confidence. Mark *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.gasp-seakayak.net/paddlewise/ ***************************************************************************Received on Wed Jan 27 1999 - 14:55:04 PST
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