How to use a MARLINSPIKE

Thank you to @speedcookie for this video request. Here I show different ways to use a Marlinspike. This includes decorative knot work, how to loosen a tight knot, lowering an object, eye splicing, rope and toggle, and a marlinspike hitch.

[dankolar]

Long ago, before the birth of the internet, I wanted a marlinspike. However, I didn't know what it was called, nor where I could get one. However, the lumber yard had a bin full of 60d nails. While not ideal, I used a 60d nail for almost 30 years, until an old Seabee gave me his. I liked it a lot, but someone else liked it more — so it got stolen. So it goes. Thanks for sharing. Wish you well.

[greengohm]

Perfect timing! Just days ago made a marlinspike based on your design. But couldn't stop myself from ordering just now the "original" one from you. Feels like the least I can do to thank you for countless videos! Cheers from Poland!

[RedPepperyElk]

I bought one of his marlinspikes - its great. Has a nice weight to it and the turks head knot was fun to tie. I've already used it a few times and have only had it for a few days. Im actually currently using it to restring some old hexes for rock climbing. I have ordered a leather sheath from him as well as I want to bring it camping this summer.

[Stevej]

Thank you, Sir. Marlin Spike ordered.

[clintstinkeye]

That, sir, was a super cool video that I didn't see coming.

[kornfed]

Alright I just ordered one. Now the wait!

[BlankPicketSign]

I don't actually carry my Marlin Spike around because I worry about the tip. Maybe you could make a leather sheath we could slip it in and wear?

[CamiloSantana]

dunno if I made the cut but I grabbed a handful of other items anyway.

the previous spike I got from ya, I hit it with a belt sander to dull it some. I found it too "stabby" initially. but better to be too sharp than too dull, right?

thanks for making stuff a little more fun. glad to support.

[sztaylor]

Already bought one of your marlinespikes, but definitely would like one of the belt holsters for it

[equesdeventusoccasus]

In one of my oldest books that mentions the marlinspike it says that the purpose of the large metal head is so that a sailor doesn't need to carry a hammer into rigging.

[allongshanks]

Securing cables. Length of cord. in half, larkspur knot around the cable - best near one of the end connectors. Loop the cable up, and tie it with the cord. When untied the cord stays on the cable for the next time and does attach to itself, unlike velcro.

[maxz]

that placement on your belt at the end seems like a preview for your next video: "How to suture closed puncture wounds in thigh tissues using only paracord"

[chronicon]

Ah see, now i have one of your marlin spikes (very useful), and have been wanting a sheath for it, but maybe the belt hook is a better idea.

[jba]

Just ordered a marlin spike. 14706, probably late for the loop but that’s ok. Watched plenty of your videos. I’ll put it to use.

[Ziraya]

Some of these, the alpine butterfly slack thing, the munter's hitch, make it seem like it could be valuable to have just some rods around. I'm imagining something a lot like your marlinspike but both ends are domed over and it's a little longer than my knuckles. With the slack thing, seems inconvenient to occupy a tool that way, and I don't love the idea of having a spike floating midline in the truck bed. If I had a handful of pins problem solved, especially if I modified the turks head to have a loop sticking off that I could lash to the other end, capturing the butterflies on the pin. With the munter, seems like it'd be nice to have the turkshead between finger & thumb for an easy hold instead of grasping it with pinky and the other middle finger against the palm, but then the spike would be pointing towards me. Could probably go with a smaller diameter, make it easier to have a handful of pins available, but I can't think through what impact that would have on the munter

[speedcookie]

mk im saving up fore one now. but while I'm there might as well buy a paracord black wall carabiner.

[kenhollandjr]

I am learning knots. I have used a top part of fingernail clippers, the part you pushed down with your thumb, to wedge in between knots. Same principIe. I’ve done this for years, and I’ve never had a knot I can’t undo. Smaller size knots basically.

[mergrew]

You see, the flashy marlin spike gets all of the fame and glory! While his close relative, the fid goes unnoticed, so sad…….

[tobiiboii]

Best improvised marlinspike? Would be nice to have some in multiple places like the car

[buixote]

That spike-holder would never work for me... I'd be the first one to put a hole in my leg, or something else important. I think I'd go with a leather sheath.


Great video, as always!