Short Splice (Three-Strand): A short splice is the strongest way to join two identical stranded ropes. Does increase the diameter of the rope substantially. Unlike bends, splicing retains most of the strength of the rope (85 to 90%). Excellent splice for repairs along headropes & footropes of various nets. Standard Short Splice – No Tapers For the sake of clarity the following examples will utilize two different colors of rope. A 3/8 inch diameter yellow polypropylene rope will be spliced to a 3/8 inch manila rope. It is generally not advisable to use dissimilar ropes for actual field applications.

“Center” strand established Splicing Right-Hand Laid Line:Begin a short splice by unraveling the three strands approximately 8-12 inches on each rope. When splicing large lines or synthetics such as nylon or Dacron, the strand ends may become frayed and difficult to work with. To guard against this, wrap them tightly with a turn of tape or a seizing. Unlike the eye splice, the strands should be separated and left entirely independent as shown below. There is no “center” strand. CORRECT Strands are independent INCORRECT “Center” strand established

Intertwine or “marry” the strands of each rope as shown in figure 1. Independent strands on both ropes. Figure 1

Take any one of the free strands and tuck it against the lay, over one strand and under the next of the opposite rope (figures 2A & 2B). 2A 2B

Tuck the two remaining free stands in the same manner, always over one strand and under the next in the opposite rope. 3A 3B 3rd Strand Over this Strand Under this Strand 3C 3D

Tuck the other set of strands into the first rope in exactly the same way, over one strand and under the next, working against the lay. 4A 4D 4B 4C

After the required number of tucks on each side, roll the splice between your palms to help it settle. When cutting the excess strands off, do not cut so close as to allow the strands to untuck. If the splice is to be tapered do not cut the excess strands at this time – follow the steps shown in the following slide.

If a tapered splice is desired you should allow an extra 3-4 inches when unraveling the strands prior to intertwining the two ropes (figure 1). A tapered splice is made by taking an additional 2 to 3 tucks after the minimum number while cutting away some of the threads from each strand before each extra tuck (figures 5A & 5B). 5A 5B

A tapered splice is generally only used in combination with a short splice. It is particularly useful with any type of “running rigging”. Additional Tucks Tapered End No Taper