Splicing Rope and Cable

Splicing Rope

• Splicing is a way to interweave rope.  Common splices include eye splices, back splices, and long splices.
• The above photo is an example of a 3 strand eye splice, also referred to as a soft eye.  A hard eye includes what’s called a thimble that lines the inner edge of the soft eye to protect it from chafing and changing its shape.
• A long splice is a way to weave two ropes of similar construction together
• A back splice is a way to finish a rope without the use of melting, tape, or a whipping
• Ensure a familiarity with the following:
  • 3 strand eye splice
  • 3 strand back splice
  • 3 strand long splice
  • Double braided eye splice
  • Double braided back splice
  • 6 strand cable eye splice

Splicing Cable

• Splicing cable is typically done using a vise and a flathead screwdriver.  Upon completion of the cable splice, the sharp ends of spliced strands should be “served”.  This is where a protective covering is placed over the splice preventing it from incurring chafing or abrasion problems as well as preventing injuries.