Knots, Splices & Ropework RYA Handbook by Gordon Perry & Steve Judkins
RYA 2008 ISBN: 9781905104758
The IGKT gets appropriate billing in this 2016 reprint of the first 2008 edition, both authors being long-serving Guild members; Gordon Perry having seen the first three reprints of this comprehensive handbook during his lifetime. The chapters covering Ropes & Tools, Blocks & Tackles, Belays, Splicing Serving & Seizing, and a short but useful section on Marlinespike Ropework, are well composed and presented.
For knot tyers, the outstanding features are the clear descriptions of the knots and splices. The excellent illustrations by Steve Lucas can be easily followed by a learner, and each is accompanied by a concise note on its uses. The effect of this well-designed treatise is that, while it is clearly aimed at the sailor, it provides an ideal instruction manual on useful and decorative ropework for anyone interested in learning how to use rope and cord in any occupation.
David Pepper