Just got a Ti Survival Titanium Marlin Spike (4.5" blue sandblast) Next to my xtremepara marlin spike. 2.5" stainless
On my toolchain, I have and highly value an Atwood Dreadknot - has saved me from shoelace knot rage many a time, and is very useful for any other cordage tangling problem that pops up, too. Recently, I have added on that chain a slender 4 or so inch titanium marlinspike I got via EBay, too. The longer reach and simple, straightforward design with a rounded tip is nice for prodding and digging into spaces too small for fingers without being stabby or scratchy. A while back, for example, I used it to manipulate a stuck spring in our car's hood's locking mechanism. My third tool for loosening and losing a knot is the Gecko Ti Shark's nose. Which is only logical, because as with many problems in life, direct application of a shark is always a viable option, nay? I like marlinspikes, and more often than (k)not, am glad to have one or the other with me. Also, let us not forget the maritime / nautical theme bonus a marlinspike adds to your gear selection. Yarr!
Probably a dumb question, but how do you use one / what is the purpose? I know they've been around for ages, but I guess I never really understood what you use one for (I know it's knots and rope, but how?)
it helps you pick out knots and tighten them with leverage. its also good for splicing braided ropes together. its a tiny thin steel or wood finger.
You use it for pulling and working your material through and either loosening or tightening your work. I'm a paracorder and appreciator of cool things so it's a necessary evil.
Stainless from extremepara is small enough for a keychain. The Tisurvival model is normally 4" but I ordered the 6" model amd had him chop it before finishing. He will make it whatever size you want up to 6". Google is your friend.
