RE: [Paddlewise] The perfect tow line

I would like to thank folks for all the back channel input.  A manufacturer
is now sending me a sample of what they call their 3/16th "solid braid
multi-filament polypropylene (SBMP)".  Minimum order is 2,000 feet.  I do
not yet know the rated strength of the line.  Remember that my purpose for
the line is towing sea kayaks only and I want it to float.  To keep it a
compact tow system, I am sacrificing its use as a throw bag or, potential
use for such things as unwrapping a stuck boat.  The line is not for
gripping with your hands and I suspect my deck fittings (even with good
backing) may not handle much over 5 or 600 pounds.  (Anyone actually had a
deck fitting get pulled off when towing in large seas or tested the strength
of their fittings?)

If the sample line I receive appears as good as the Kokatat tow line (size,
strength, pliability) I will let everyone know the details of the deal as it
"sounds" pretty good right now.

Bill McKenzie
wamckenz_at_gte.net

-----Original Message-----
From: Jerry Hawkins [mailto:jhawkins_at_cisco.com]
Sent: Thursday, June 22, 2000 9:29 AM
To: Bill McKenzie; Paddlewise List
Subject: Re: [Paddlewise] The perfect tow line

Bill -
I'm no authority in this but 3/16 is really thin.  Any force at all and 3/16
line will cut into flesh.  I keep a 25 foot piece of 3/16 line in my PFD
pocket for quick tows and for dock tie up and emergency use, but for real
towing I think I would look for something a size or two bigger.

jerry.

At 10:04 PM 06/21/2000 -0700, Bill McKenzie wrote:
>I am making a sea kayak tow line and have been unable to find a source for
>3/16th braided solid core polypropylene line.  I may be describing this
>wrong but I think this type line is what Kokatat uses in their relatively
>small PFD tow setup that uses the "winder" tool.
>
>Anyone have a source for such line?
>
>Bill McKenzie
>wamckenz_at_gte.net
>
>
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