Why Marlin Spike?

**Apeman1470** · 06-25-2014, 15:07

Thanks guys. I will be adding this knot to my arsenal. Currently I'm using ti dutch clips, but I like options. I will be embarking on a 325 mile trek in 2 days, so I'm sure I will find time to explore this hitch. Also, I like the idea of using it for guy lines & ridge lines even though I'm satisfied with my current system. Thanks again gents.

**MAD777** · 06-25-2014, 17:32

Dutch clips are certainly compatible with a Marlin Spike. I use both on some of my hammocks. The Dutch clip merely makes wrapping the tree strap around the tree easier, especially if you need to move it up & down the tree to adjust when there are limbs at that height.

**Insaniac99** · 06-25-2014, 18:14

Perhaps he means the Dutch Buckle, which is designed as a replacement to the MSH?

**d_flo_yo** · 06-25-2014, 18:36

I like the marlin spike but the Dutch buckle is a nicer option in my opinion. It sides up and down your tree strap and you hook over it just like you would a marlin spike. It stays attached to your strap and has a piece of shock cord to keep your straps neat. You'll continue to have the ability to keep your straps separated too.

**d_flo_yo** · 06-25-2014, 18:39

Originally Posted by Mountain Gout

... also use it to create the v in my r.l. When using my Dutch hook on one end and wasp on the other.. Bring the hook around to where needed, make the msh and clip it to it.. Presto..

This is simple genius. That has always bugged me about the dutch hook. Much appreciated!

**ntxkayakr** · 06-25-2014, 20:14

An important reason to learn to tie the MSH and a few others like half hitch well is that if your other faster hardware is ever lost, stolen or left behind you can use a ground stake or strong twig and keep on hiking forward. Also good to know how to do it correctly and avoid the MSG (Marlin Spike Glitch) which is very common. I use MSH and half hitch (slippery hitch) and others for many things other than hammock suspension. Not that important but knots are cord to cord and hitch is cord to something else, a nerdy difference you may not care about.

**Tuck** · 06-25-2014, 20:53

Another note of caution, if using sticks for the msh, make they are thick and sturdy enough to withstand your weight. I learned the hard way using too skinny of a stick.

**dfscott** · 06-25-2014, 21:16

Originally Posted by d_flo_yo

I like the marlin spike but the Dutch buckle is a nicer option in my opinion. It sides up and down your tree strap and you hook over it just like you would a marlin spike. It stays attached to your strap and has a piece of shock cord to keep your straps neat. You'll continue to have the ability to keep your straps separated too.

+1

I switched from the MSH to the dutch buckle as well. I had problems getting my spike out a few times and I also didn't like the way it wrangled up my straps. The dutch buckle keeps things neater.

That said, I still use the MSH for my tent guy lines...

**SonOfMartin** · 06-26-2014, 07:33

Question: With the concern about arrow shafts failing, I use climbing rated carabiners instead of the arrow shaft. I use straps and whoopie slings....I clip (insert) the carabiner into the location where the spike would go..Now here's my question - is it preferable (concerning safety) to clip the whoppie into the carabiner and let it do the work, or should I 'thread' the whoopie through the carabiner and then over the knot of the MSH? Maybe I'm making too much out of this?

I've also experimented with using the carabiner as the MSH and then clipping my backpack into the carabiner....I think I'm way overthinking this - but what say those with more experience?