Thimbles for 1x19 1/4'' splices

[klubko]

Hello,
thanks for the comment. I was looking around and rationalizing, but it really seems that 1x19 with "some normal" thimbles would be a risky way to go. We are cruising boat, so ease of repair and low cost (and other virtues mentioned in Apprentice and elsewhere ) are on the top of the list. So we started to think about 5/16 7x7, which we could use with normal thimbles as I understand and might be in the end: easier to do and cheaper.

Any practical comments on that? I know 7x7 will have to be larger (I decided to go safe with 9/32" 1x19 or 5/16" 7x7) and perhaps not as handsome. More flexing too.

There is one question for the 1x19 and bronze thimbles option: the Apprentice doesn't mention insulating the wire from the bronze thimble. Is it not necessary? Should I rather go with galvanized wire instead of SS?

Also please comment on the longevity. With mechanical terminals people say, change at least every 10 years (we are/will be in tropics, so perhaps even sooner) (well be bought a boat with swages and 15 year old rigging ). From what I hear about splices, they can last much longer. This is very appealing too (of course with periodic inspection).

Didn't know about Port Townsend, will write them now, Many thanks.

(There is still the option to get Norseman in the end, but that's a boring idea... )

Many thanks
Petr