Skagit loops

[Tiger]

I want to cut some of my integrated skagits to use the running lines and heads separate. Does anyone know the best way to make loops on both the running line and head.

[Mike R]

Do a search on speypages...there's enough on loops to keep you busy for a week. By far the best is welded loops, but that takes some practice. A second best is the mono loop system. You can also loop the running line, tie a couple good nailknots to bind it, and whip over the doubled section

Mike

[Terry Thomas]

You can also make or purchase braided loops. Rio makes three sizes. The largest size (extra large) is big enough for Skagit type lines.
T.

[Rick J]

The one problem with the braided loop material is if you plan to customize a skagit by cutting off the back end to make a shorter, lighter line - you end up with a very fat line and the 50# braided material won't fit over it - easiest way I have found is to take a single edge razor and just scrape the plastic coating off slowly (don't slice as it is hard to control). You can shave a section maybe 2" long or so down so you can slip a 50# braided loop over the end then apply a single nail knot at the back where it joins the line and coat with some sort of flex cement - I have done this on several lines.

The first time I tried it I did the slicing option and after a bit, a narrow portion of the line broke off inside the loop - since then, I have carefully shaved them down with no issues

[Bill Kiene semi-retired]

Thanks guys...............I use an electric pencil sharpener on those big fat Skagit lines.


(only fooling)

[Rick J]

Bill - I like it - I wonder if that would work!!!!????

[Terry Thomas]

True, the 50lb. will not work without working your fingers to the bone...I have done that. That is why we now carry the extra large Rio braided loops. They work quite well.
T.

[Rick J]

T - what # material is that made out of? I have it in 25#, 30# and 50#

[Terry Thomas]

Rick,
It is also a braided material. I'm not sure what the lb. rating is, but it will fit some real large lines. When I first cut back a Vision Ace line I used the 50 lb. braid. It took me an hour to get the loop on...what a pain. I called John Hazel and asked them how they did their lines and he told me about the extra large Rio loops. I also talked to the people at Rio and tried to get some bulk material of the same diameter, but they only have it in big spools and weren't into breaking it into smaller lengths. Perhaps in the future? The packs come with 4 loops so that is still a pretty good way to go.
T.