Figure 9's

**Ewker** · 05-05-2009, 22:08

Originally Posted by Old Grouse

I see that Jacks R Better is now carrying them. May as well keep it in the family!

sorry they want to much for them. REI has them for 2.00 each.

**angrysparrow** · 05-05-2009, 22:09

Originally Posted by Knotty

Can Figure 9's handle the load of a structural ridgeline? Seems iffy to me.

I wouldn't use them in that application either. On a tarp ridgeline is the most appropriate place.

Originally Posted by bernc3

I've also been considering picking up several of these, however I'm not sold yet on them being more reliable than a taut-line hitch. Anyone ever have any problems with the figure 9's slipping or even breaking under harsh conditions?

I know that there have been reports of the plastic ones breaking, but not the metal ones.

I don't think they are, as you say, more reliable than a tautline hitch. But they are handy.

**Knotty** · 05-05-2009, 23:31

I recently had a Guide Gear 12x12 tarp setup and used paracord for they guy lines. During some substantial rain and wind one of the tautline hitches slipped letting the line go slack. That's the problem with that knot on slippery line. The 9's have better grip.

**2Questions** · 05-06-2009, 06:04

The F9's are a lot easier than the tautline in winter months when having to adjust them with gloves/mittens on. As a habit now, I always tie a slippery loop behind the "knarly end" just for security, particularly in windy conditions.

**ricegravy** · 05-06-2009, 08:43

I wrap the line around threw the teeth one more time and then around the body of the 9 so the line isn't dangling in a way that the wind can pull it out of the teeth. I have never had them slip this way.

I have 9's on the tarp ridge line and all of the other tarp tie outs.

Some people call me lazy. I agree with some of them.

Rice!

**Take-a-knee** · 05-06-2009, 09:59

Originally Posted by Knotty

I recently had a Guide Gear 12x12 tarp setup and used paracord for they guy lines. During some substantial rain and wind one of the tautline hitches slipped letting the line go slack. That's the problem with that knot on slippery line. The 9's have better grip.

Paracord stretches when it gets wet, I used to use it on my tarp. I now use 7/64 Amsteel Blue for the tree ties (with metal figure 9's) and 1.75mm Lash it for the stake ties.

**mikek** · 05-06-2009, 10:24

i was at the local harbor freight yesterday and they have REI brand figure 9's on the shef by the rope they also have those s shaped carabiners just thought i would pass it on