USCG Exam PracticeKnots, Bends, and Hitches
A mariner states: 'For permanent, high-strength connections aboard a small vessel, a properly tied knot from the standard eight is preferable to a splice because it can be inspected and released after loading.' Evaluate this statement.
- A. The statement is correct; knots are stronger than splices and easier to inspect.
- ✓ The statement is partially correct; knots are easier to inspect and release, but splices are stronger and permanent, making splices preferable for permanent high-strength connections.Correct
- C. The statement is correct; splices are only used on wire rope, not on synthetic line.
- D. The statement is incorrect because knots cannot be untied after a heavy load has been applied.
Why B is correct
The Boatswain's Manual §1.3 states that knots are tied for ease of inspection and untying after load, while splices are stronger and permanent. Therefore, for a permanent, high-strength connection, a splice is preferable. The mariner's statement correctly identifies the advantage of knots (inspection and release) but incorrectly applies that advantage to a situation calling for a permanent, high-strength connection.