🔍 Key Concepts

• Eye splice steps in fiber (rope) versus wire • Traditional marlinspike seamanship tools and their specific uses • Difference between tools used to open strands vs. tools used to pull or tension line

💭 Think About

• When you make an eye splice in a fiber line, what is the very first thing you must do to the strands to begin tucking them? • Which of these tools is specifically shaped to separate or ‘open up’ the laid strands without cutting the fibers? • Think about which tools are mainly for securing line to fittings, and which are mainly for working the rope itself during splicing.

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify which tool is specifically designed for ropework and splicing, not for belaying or heaving. • Check which tool has a tapered, smooth shape that lets you open strands without damaging them. • Eliminate any tools that are mostly associated with tying off line on cleats, pins, or for applying pulling force, rather than detailed splicing work.