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Using Alternate Line, Knots and Splices

Lashing line minimum breaking load 

Strands

lb

kg

1

2000

907

2

1000

454

3

667

302

4

500

227

5

400

181

6

333

151

7

286

130

8

250

113

9

222

101

10

200

91

Six (6) 

strands 

Harken is not liable or responsible for use of line used to secure blocks. Go to Harken Limited 

Warranty at www.harken.com for complete details. It is your responsibility to choose the correct line 

for the block. When choosing line, use a breaking load that exceeds the block's breaking load to 

account for strength loss from:

1. Knots slipping or breaking under load much lower than line's breaking load. Spectra

®

 or 

Dyneema

®

 type lines require specialized knots.

2. Splices slipping or failing due to incorrect splice or execution.

3. Increasing UV damage 

4. Chafing 

If you are not comfortable choosing line, work with a qualified rigger.  

Go to www.harken.com/knots for additional information.

IMPORTANT! Fewer lashing strands require line with higher breaking load.

Notes

A breaking load of 2000 lb (900 kg) 

can be achieved by using:

Fewer strands of higher-strength line 

OR 

More strands of lower-strength line

Check fit of lashing line in block mouth

Dyneema is a registered trademark of DSM Dyneema.
Spectra is a registered trademark of Honeywell International, Inc.

Lashing to Bail Using Harken-Supplied Line

Note sheave direction of rotation when block is under load in ratchet mode. Make sure the block  

is facing the correct way before lashing. Use three laps to create six strands. Tie ends using double 

fisherman's knot or other secure knot. Knot can also be located on side of block. Photos are not 

intended to teach this knot. See www.harken.com/knots or consult a knot-tying book. IMPORTANT!  

If you are not comfortable tying this or any other knot, get help from a professional rigger.

Lashing 90°

To lash block at 90°, cross 

lines each pass similar to 

lashing to boom.

5

See next page. Read important information on choosing line, 

knots and splices at: www.harken.com/knots.

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