Standing Rigging ?

[markb]

I am currently building a 32' wooden ketch, and I am considering my options for standing rigging. I have heard some good things about the high strength ropes such as amsteel but have some unanswered questions. Can I expect to get the same service time from these ropes as one would with 1x19? What are the best brands? Also I assume that these ropes would be unsuited for head and fore stays with hanked on sails.

[Brian Duff]

start here---
http://briontoss.com/spartalk/showthread.php?p=3506
and then keep researching. there has been a lot of discussion on this forum, so use the search featrue.

[markb]

So I see from that thread that vectran is the stuff to use. I will search for more.

[Brian Duff]

not absolutly vectran, it depends on the application. We have three boats in the works right now rigging with Dynex Dux (dyneema)

[markb]

The question of the head and fore stays is the last issue here, as they would be subject to chafing from the sail hanks.

[Brian Duff]

Hanks made of dyneema line and t-bones are available. Check out www.precourt.ca