I have been splicing 7x7 316 ss 5/16" for my Bermuda rigged 36' double head sail sloop. Brion's right of course, it does take a lot of practice, least for me. I made 24 practice splices before I felt like I had it sorted out and the splices were sound enough for my needs. I documented my efforts and learning curve here:
http://www.farreachvoyages.com/proje...ndrigging.html
Brion's book and his DVD were essential to my skill development. I highly recommend them both. I am really glad I took the time to learn how to splice wire. It has been very rewarding. To be fair, I have not launched the boat so my work remains untested. Soon though.
Good luck.