While searching for 550# parachute cord, I came across this Spectra parachute cord here:

http://www.shomertec.com/item.cfm?Action=Index&variable=341

Due its lighter weight and smaller size, would this cord be better than standard 550 parachute cord? Is the Spectra cord made up of smaller strands of cord wrapped in a sheath like the 550 parachute cord? Is anyone already using Spectra cord and if so, what do you think of it?

-Chris

I use Spectra Cord (5 mm) for climbing. It is undoubtedly very strong, BUT its fairly stiff and it won't hold every type of knot.

Do you use it for lead climbing or rappelling? I was unaware that Spectra was being used in dynamic rope manufacture. Pete

The cord referenced by the original poster is 2mm Spectra accessory cord, not the 5.5mm Spectra cord often used by climbers (like me) to sling chocks and make tie-offs for oldschool rigid Friends. If you're a climber with much experience, you know what Friends are.

The 2mm Spectra cord referenced above is similar to Kelty's "TripTease" guyline cord, though a bit thicker it appears based on the strength rating. I know the Kelty cord does not have the separate inner strands like nylon 550 cord, and I suspect the 2mm cord doesn't either.

Along those lines, kindasorta, a while back I had the need to do a short rappel whild on a day hike, but had nothing with me. Short of carrying 100 ft of "real" rope all the time, is there any lightweight stuff around that is suitable for limited rappelling???

Here are some Ebay lisitings for an emergency rappel line. Pete

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3613328263&category=undefined

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3613622688&category=undefined

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3613505651&category=undefined

Maaybe im a bit old fashon, but I woulden't put my life in the hands of some rope I bought of Ebay. Unless I know for sure the sellers sells good new stuff. <img src="images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />

Years ago, I did archeological field work in Canyon de Chelly, Arizona, and spent a lot of time hiking there. A lot of the trails were rock scrambles, using toe and hand routes of various ages, and it was very easy to get off route and suffer various other adventures. I developed the practice of ALWAYS carrying a 60 foot length of 3/8" (9mm)climbing rope - more of courseif I was planning to do some climbing. It came in handy several times - didn't weigh much and took up very little space in my pack. Used it for rappels, a very modest amount of impromptu leading, and also to give a belay to companions who were bothered by the considerable exposure on some of the "trails."

I would recommend something similar if venturing into rough country, provided you have the knowledge to use the rope properly. Rappeling is as dangerous as lead climbing, and it is often difficult/impossible to reverse a rappel, unlike a pitch you have climbed.

I wouldn't go any thinner than 3/8 because I carried only the rope, and body rappeled, if a rap was called for. That way I avoided the considerable weight and bulk of harness and descender, etc. A thinner rope, used for a body rappel, would cut far too much.

I think it was Sam Gamgee who said, "You always need a little bit of rope" - LOTR

Couldn't agree more Paul. Anyone buying climbing or abseiling ropes that are not UIAA rated is nuts. Anyone buying climbing or abseiling ropes without prior history of the item is nuts. Seemingly perfect ropes can hide stretching due to falls (in second-hand ropes) or UV degredation in the case of shop-bought ropes kept near a window.

The seller is well established and I would have no hesitation buying from him (I have without problems). However, you need to make that determination for yourself. Pete