Re: [Paddlewise] throw bag construction

>From: "Shawn W. Baker" <baker_at_montana.com>

>I'm planning to use that exact same stuff for my as-yet-unbuilt tow bag.
>
>Our shop has both polypropylene and nylon utility rope.  (The nylon is
>shinier, the polypro is duller, and slightly coarser and "harder").
>
>If it's the stuff I'm thinking about, it is kernmantle construction, or
>at least braid-over-braid, so it has a strong core under a durable
>sheath.  Should be perfect for a tow rope.  I'm thinking about just
>getting the 1/4" 30 lb. work/300 lb. breaking strength stuff--think it's
>sufficient for towing purposes.  (I don't plan to use it for whitewater
>rescues!)

I'm not an engineer (nor do I play one on TV), but do you think that's 
strong enough? Given that a paddler alone may weigh 150lbs or more, plus the 
weight of the boat and gear, could bring you to the working load of 300lbs. 
before you even deal with a dynamic load (boats on either side of a long 
swell, the jerk on the line as the towing boat comes up to speed and begins 
to haul the towee) etc. etc.

Philip Torrens
N49°16' W123°06'


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