Page 17 - Maria Constantino "The Knot Handbook"

TYPES OF ROPE
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:::> Some synthetic ropes are made in the 'old' way, as laid rope, in order to
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1- recreate some of the particular handling qualities of the olde~ natural
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cordage. Other synthetic ropes are produced as braided (or plaited) or as

sheath-and-core ropes. Braided rope can be constructed in a variety of ways

but the most common forms are made up of eight or sixteen braids. Some

braided cordage is hollow; this makes a very flexible rope, but it does flatten

out during use. In most cases, a separate core is used to give strength and
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elasticity, while a braided outer ,. r
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sheath reiriforces the whole rope.

The inner core niay be braided or

laid, but braid-on-braid is generally

considered the strongest 111ethod of

Climbers use special
cordage construction. 's heath-and-core ' ropes,
designed with extra
elasticity and strength.