What is the efficiency percentage of a SheepShank?

The SheepShank is a type of knot used to shorten a rope or take up slack while maintaining some form of load security. The efficiency of a knot is typically defined by how much of the rope's original strength remains after it has been tied into the knot.

In the case of the SheepShank, the efficiency is around 35%. This means that when the knot is tied, only about 35% of the rope's original tensile strength is preserved. This relatively lower efficiency percentage happens because the knot introduces bends and tension points that weaken the rope's ability to withstand a load compared to its unknotted state.

Understanding the efficiency of the SheepShank knot is crucial for rigging applications, as it allows practitioners to make informed decisions about which knots to use based on the weight and force they need to manage. While other options may represent different strengths of other knots or configurations, the specific characteristic of the SheepShank's efficiency at 35% is well-documented and standard within rigging practices.