[Jerry Wegman]

Brion,

Thanks to you for your response, and also thanks to another member who responded earlier but whose response does not now appear.

I am puzzled by your statement that "double-braid has lesser energy-absorbing ability" than single-braid and three strand. I assume that "energy absorbing ability" is a function of elongation; the rope manufacturers all cite the elongation of their ropes under load. If I am not correct, then please set me straight.

When comparing stretch (elongation) characteristics I see substantial differences among manufacturers, so that the nylon DB of one company can have more elongation (at the same load) than the three strand of another company. I base this on the published data on manufacturers' web sites.

For example, Novabraid Novagold, DB nylon, has about 10% elongation at a load of 15% of breaking strength, whereas New England Rope Premium 3 strand nylon has elongation of about 8% at the same load. The breaking strength of the DB is somewhat greater than the 3 strand, so the NER 3 strand elongation might be closer to the Novagold DB at the same amount of load.

On the other hand, New England Ropes nylon DB states its elongation is about 6.5% at a load of 15% of break strength, so within the NER family, it is certainly true that the nylon 3 strand has more stretch than the DB. Yale Cordage quotes its 8 strand braid elongation at about 10% at a load of 15%; NER Megabraid 2 quotes about 12% at the same load.

I appreciate that the selection of the rope component of a rode depends in part on whether a windlass is to be used. With a windlass, a direct rope to chain splice must be used, and this would seem to favor 3 strand or braid.

I plan to use DB Nylon Novagold, which has about the same elongation as Yale 8 strand and actually has more elongation than NER premium 3 strand nylon.

Which brings me back to my original question, what is the best connection of the chain to the nylon DB? I considered an anchor bend knot, but was dissuaded by some authors who urged use of a thimble. But perhaps you disagree, and would prefer to use a knot or a splice. If so, which one? If you agree that a thimble is the right choice, then is there a preference between SS and galvanized, or is bronze the best choice? I have not seen bronze offered in any of the major catalogs.

Regarding stowage and handling, my experience has been that DB is superior to 3 strand.

The matter of an anchor rode may seem quite mundane, but the survival of the boat, and her crew, could depend on its integrity. Thank you again for considering this question, and for sharing your expertise on this very useful site.

Best regards,

Jerry