MacGregorSailors.com

I learned in the Boy Scouts but you might try https://www.animatedknots.com/splicing-knots.

Over-Easy...that's funny, and kind of sad, that someone at WM was that uneducated about splicing. I mean, I get it, they aren't all going to be experienced riggers. But they have a department where they do the splicing. You'd think they'd be a little in-the-know!

I love me some dynema! Brilliant idea about the added block. I was going to splice on some braided line for the handed part, but now I'm gonna steal your idea!

Regarding shackles not fitting in chain. Maybe try a different shackle even from the same brand. Also make sure it’s not in mm! (More common with stuff bought on line)
I use 1/4 high test acco chain. I try to use shackles made in the USA as well. I have an a 60 lb kedge as my main anchor and wouldn’t recommend it to most mac’ers since it’s over kill unless you anchor out for months on end. I’ve never had an issue finding a SS shackle that far exceeds the loading of the chain and fits through the link easily. I’ll use a Wichard or similar. I use 70 ft of chain and a 35 ft piece of 5/8 three strand, which works well for me. The bow cleats on the M go through such thick fiberglass that the backing plates I made for them even I deemed completely unnecessary.

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