Samson Tenex 3/8 in Rope by the Foot

The Samson Tenex 3/8 is a splicing rope for splicing slings, loopies and tails. Sold by the foot so you can cut exactly the length you need. Here is how it handles on the job, what to check before you buy, and how to keep it in service.

What it is used for

Tenex is Samson's 12-strand single-braid polyester rope, and buying 3/8 in by the foot lets you cut exactly what you need. Climbers and riggers splice it into whoopie slings, loopies, adjustable friction saver tails and short rigging slings.

A 12-strand single braid is hollow, which makes it quick to splice: bury a tail, lock-stitch if the instructions call for it, and you have a clean eye without hardware. Polyester holds up well to sunlight and abrasion and stretches less than nylon, and a firm single braid keeps its shape in a sling or tail that gets clipped, loaded and unloaded all day. Only splice life-support items if you have been trained to do it, and follow the manufacturer's splicing instructions.

Sizing, splicing and inspection

Size the rope to the hardware and the job: thinner cord for loopies and friction saver tails, heavier rope for slings that take rigging loads. See the other rigging ropes for complete lines.

Inspect spliced items before each use for pulled strands, fuzzing at the bury and glazing. Anything used for life support must meet ANSI Z133 and the manufacturer's instructions, be inspected regularly, and be made and used by trained people.