[Brian Duff]

perhaps for an investment as large as Petronella must be (using 1-1/4" rope and 5/8" chain! ) and considering the number of lives that might be onboard a craft that size, you should consider an all chain anchoring system - unless there is specific reason you wish to keep the weight off the boat. HOw big is the boat and where is it used?

The messy splice you mention is likely what is known as shovel splice and is a common way to attach line to chain. It is not really so strong as far as I am aware - logic says as much becasue the strands cannot all carry even load with that splice. The way to achieve maximum strength is to use a thimble in an eye splice, and attach the line/thimble to the chain with a shackle or swivel. Be sure to use a captive thimble so there is no chance of the timble comming loose.

As far as how to do the splice - either a bury splice or tuck splice will have to be used. I presume the line is a single braid ? Not knowing what brand of line and so how the manufacture recommends splicing it, I would start with attempting a bury splice. If this will not go in then following the 'Mega-Braid' instructions might work as your description of the line loosely fits that type, except for more strands.

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