tucked each strand twice more besides the original tuck. Three tucks to each strand in all is enough.

Short Splice

In a SHORT SPLICE, the ends of a line are joined together or the ends of two different lines are joined, causing an increase in the diameter of the line for a short distance. This splice should NOT be used where the increase in the diameter of the line would affect operation. One purpose for which you may find the short splice especially useful is in making endless slings. It is also used for making straps. Slings and straps are made of pieces of line with their own ends short-spliced together. Where possible, a short splice, rather than a long splice, should be used. The reason is that the short splice requires less line and can be fashioned quicker than the long splice.

In making a short splice, unlay both ends of the lines about seven turns (fig. 4-25, view 1) and put a temporary whipping on each of the loose strands. The next step involves "marrying" the ends together. In marrying, the technique is to interlace the loose strands of one line with the loose strands of the other line. When this is completed properly, each loose strand should be between the two loose strands of the other line. With the strands in this manner, start making the tucks, following the principle of "over one and under one" (view 2). One side of the splice car be made with three tucks, and then the other side will be made identically. Three complete tucks of each

Figure 4-25. - Making a short splice.