Standing Rigging ?
 

I am currently building a 32' wooden ketch, and I am considering my options for standing rigging. I have heard some good things about the high strength ropes such as amsteel but have some unanswered questions. Can I expect to get the same service time from these ropes as one would with 1x19? What are the best brands? Also I assume that these ropes would be unsuited for head and fore stays with hanked on sails.

umm...maybe
 

start here---
http://briontoss.com/spartalk/showthread.php?p=3506
and then keep researching. there has been a lot of discussion on this forum, so use the search featrue.

So I see from that thread that vectran is the stuff to use. I will search for more.

not absolutly vectran, it depends on the application. We have three boats in the works right now rigging with Dynex Dux (dyneema)

The question of the head and fore stays is the last issue here, as they would be subject to chafing from the sail hanks.

Hanks made of dyneema line and t-bones are available. Check out www.precourt.ca

That's a great site, Canadian to "eh" . Well I think I might just go this rout for the standing rigging. I will make dead eyes from the lignum I have.
I wonder if there is a market for wooden dead eyes.

If you can turn out some nice lignum deadeyes, I'm sure there's any number of people refitting or building gaffers that would buy them, especially if you offered them for less than comparable Precourt ones.
I might even be interested if they were to fit 3/8" wire--if you should happen to make some extras, email me at benz@yosemite.net and attach a photo.
Best,
Ben

I believe deadeyes are available from R&W Rigging Warehouse , also canadian

http://www.rwrope.com

ask for gordon laco

:)