Getting Better

Ok I'm new to the game and am trying to get better. It is clear that I am terrible so I am wondering if you guys have any tips on learning the ropes?

 

Most rope is of a type known as twisted rope, sometimes called laid rope, which consists of a number of strands of yarn twisted together to make them more sturdy. Each of these strands may be made up of anywhere from a small handful to a large number of smaller strands, each of which is in turn comprised of the basic fibers of the rope spun together. Most rope is made of three strands, a style of rope known as plain rope. Occasionally, rope will be made using four strands instead of the usual three, in which case it is called shroud-laid rope. When even more strength is needed, multiple lengths of rope may be twisted together, forming what is called cable-laid rope.

Modern rope made of synthetics is sometimes of a type known as braided rope. Braided rope tends to be much springier than twisted ropes, both because of the synthetic fibers used, and because of the technique used to form it. Some braided rope, however, is intentionally kept very stiff, to ensure little or no stretching during use.

There are three main types of braided rope: a solid braid, a diamond braid with no core, and a diamond braid with a core. Solid braid rope is extremely strong and cannot be unraveled, even when cut. It is one of the sturdiest types of rope, but cannot be spliced. Diamond braid is the simplest type of braided rope, in which the ends are woven together tightly. Most diamond braid has a solid core, but some is coreless, in which case it may be spliced together.

Natural rope materials commonly in use include cotton, linen, silk, hemp, manila, jute, and sisal. Most of these are derived from plants. Plant-based rope tends to be the most popular of the naturally derived ropes, for its strength and stretchability, as well as occasionally water-repellent qualities. Silk rope was once very popular for its light weight, but due to its relative weakness as a rope material it is rarely used in the modern world.

A wide range of synthetic fibers are used to make rope as well. These include nylon and polyester, as well as a number of proprietary materials such as Kevlar and Spectra. Synthetic rope usually exhibits a number of highly specialized characteristics, depending on its intended use. Some synthetic ropes are almost entirely waterproof, while others offer the ability to stretch far beyond the capacity of any natural fiber. In addition, most synthetic fibers are lighter than their natural counterparts, with a few notable exceptions, such as Kevlar.


Hope that helps

 

Rope is good said the gimp.

 

lol @ 2nd post. char boards here are pretty good. check them out.