9781422287750

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THE BASICS OF rOPE CrAFT Every member of the elite forces has a knowledge of ropes and knots, and how to use them. Soldiers’ training is not complete without intense instruction in rope craft and knots; it will serve them well in a survival situation and may even save lives. Professional-quality ropes can be used in many situations, such as building shelters, assembling packs, making rafts, providing safety devices, improvising tools and weapons, and even in first aid. It is important that soldiers practice the knot formations before they find themselves in a situation where they really need them. What is rope made from? Traditional rope materials include hemp , coconut fiber, Manila hemp , and sisal , though rope can be made from any material that produces strands of sufficient length and strength. Many modern ropes are made from nylon and other synthetic materials. These ropes are strong, light, and resistant to water, insects, and rot. However, they do have some disadvantages: they can melt if they get too hot, they are slippery when wet, and they can snap due to too much tension. Troops need to bear all these factors in mind when choosing the type of rope they take with them.

U.S. Marines practice a fast rope descent from a Boeing Sea Knight helicopter onto the landing platform of an assault ship.