puzzler knot question

[Mike Maddin]

In the November Puzzler, the handy-billy is attached to the upper shroud with a rolling hitch. Would the rolling hitch really hold without slipping under the (I'm guessing) substantial loads that would occur in the picture? I've only used it to hold up tents (well, taut-line hitch) - not much load there :-)

[osteoderm]

i've used the same set-up (as in the Puzzler) to set up brig backstays, and yes, the rolling hitch holds very well. With slippery modern line, add an extra wrap to the rolling hitch. In one instance on the Lady (with slick, recently-slushed rigging), we substituted a prussik made from a salvagee, which likewise looks as if it ought to slip, but never does (at least in my experience).

[Mike Maddin]

That's what I love about this forum.; there is always someone willing to share his/her practical experience with the knots that I have only read about and tied in my midwestern living room.
Thanks,
Mike

[Dan Lehman]

> will the rolling hitch hold ...

You might want to finish it with a stopper to prevent it from rolling out the end.
You could also guard it with a turn/half-hitch or to to take the main load.

--dl*