Large Marlinspike

[hink441]

Found this 14" Bosun's Marlinspike the other day. Pretty neat item. Almost medieval looking LOL!!!

 

Chris

 

 

[hink441]

Here are two Sailors using a Marlinspike to splice a line.

 

 

And here is an improvised Marlinspike in use!! LOL

 

[MastersMate]

My old Boatswains heart just about went into a stall.

 

The first photo is indeed a Marlinespike, a tool usually used when splicing wire rope. The other photos are unique to say the least.

 

The hawser they are working on is something I have never seen before. Must be some special USN application. It is made up as typical three strand, right hand lay line, but each strand appears to be double braided Sampson line, which is made up in that size as a stand alone line.

 

The second photo shows tuck being thrown into the line, However they appear to be going with the lay of the line versus against the lay of the line. That is the common method of splicing three strand line. They might find it easier if they'd bought what is known as a 'Norwegian or Swedish Fid'. It is made up of a rolled "U" shape metal spike with a hardwood handle. It pens up each lay and provides a groove to push the strand through..

 

Any additional info as to what the use of that particular hawser may be ???

[hink441]

My old Boatswains heart just about went into a stall.

 

Any additional info as to what the use of that particular hawser may be ???

I have no idea what they are doing. ?

 

I was an Airdale but I appreciate the traditions of the Boatswain Mates.

 

Chris