When is a larks head ok?

[team karst]

Rigging an anchor bridal. Last time, I spliced a small eye on all 4 ends ( catamaran) and did larks heads for the mantus hook and the bow eye bolts. Nice smooth SS surfaces.
I will acknowledge that thimbles and shackles will have more long term security. But with sea bottom abrasion and whisker line chafing, the bridal gets to be new every year.
What say the collective wisdom?
Oh; 5/8” 3 strand.

[thinwater]

Originally Posted by team karst

Rigging an anchor bridal. Last time, I spliced a small eye on all 4 ends ( catamaran) and did larks heads for the mantus hook and the bow eye bolts. Nice smooth SS surfaces.
I will acknowledge that thimbles and shackles will have more long term security. But with sea bottom abrasion and whisker line chafing, the bridal gets to be new every year.
What say the collective wisdom?
Oh; 5/8” 3 strand.

About 15% strength is lost if the rope OD = ring rod OD (Samson). If the ring is smaller (it probably is much smaller), then you will loose a lot more strength and want a thimble.



Note: I think you mean a luggage tag or girth hitch, which is tied with an eye or loop:
https://www.animatedknots.com/girth-hitch-knot


A lark's head is tied with the end and is far less secure on a slippery surface:
https://www.animatedknots.com/cow-hitch-knot-end-method

[team karst]

Yes, girth hitch. Thanks for that too!