Dave, thank you for the constructive thoughts. I agree that a fresh rated polyester rope could be a good choice but many of us self included have poor knot skills or have had ropes and knots slip loose. Since you mentioned climbing ropes, did you know that climbing ropes are made from Nylon which is not the best choice for weathering in the sun. They also have a build in stretch up to 1/3 of their length to slow down a climbers fall. These 2 properties of climbing ropes may be great for climbers but may not be the best choice to secure aircraft. We have had our industrial rated polyester test straps out in the wind and elements for 4 years straight now and have not experienced any fraying or breakage. If you own a set of our polyester straps that fayed or failed please let us know so we may address any issue you've had. I suspect Harbor Freight or other similar cheap products may fray and fail and these may be what you are referring to. As for other products that use a single S Hook, it may be possible for them to "bounce off" should the straps become lose, most use a toothed spring held strap clamp which can often work loose. Our straps feature double opposing S-Hooks that don't "bounce off" and a double bar locking strap tensioner that keeps the strap secure, locked and properly tensioned. I'm curious what you use to attach the Duck Bill wire to the aircraft and if you have any issues with abrasion from the duck bill wire. Were always looking for ways to improve the safety of our products and protect aircraft. Please contact me directly if you own one of our products and have suggestions on how to improve it's safety. glidergreg@gmail.com
