Marlinspike
For other uses, see Marlinspike (disambiguation).
A typical marlinspike with lanyard
Marlinspike (/ˈmɑːrlᵻnspaɪk/; sometimes marlin spike, marlinespike, or the archaic marlingspike/marling-spike) is a tool used in
marine ropework. Shaped in the form of a polished metal cone tapered to a rounded or flattened point, they aid in such tasks as unlaying
rope for splicing, untying knots, drawing marline tight using a marlinspike hitch, and as a toggle joining ropes under tension in a belaying pin splice.
Most marlinspikes are 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) long, but may reach 2 feet (61 cm) and more for working heavy
cables and ropes. They are usually made from iron or
steel, whereas fids, similar in shape and function, are formed from
wood or bone. The marlinspike may be a separate tool or one item on a pocket knife.
Sailors who become proficient at
knot tying, splicing, and sewing using the marlinspike are said to have mastered marlinespike seamanship, earning them the right to be known as marlin spikes or marlinspike seamen.