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I use 1in tubular webbing. You can get this at a climbing shop, and for the amount you need won't cost that much ($10 or so). I deflate the boat to about 60% and tie it on tight. You can even taco the bow up a little to make sure it is tight enough. I wouldn't do a full loop through each d-ring, as the loops tighten and make it so it can be real tight in one section, and loose in another and make the boat blow up deformed. Go through the d-ring, but don't make a loop.
The best advise is that you want that sucker as tight as you can possibly get it without making the boat blow up deformed. Bear in mind the webbing will streatch a little over time, and wet webbing (or rope, I bet) will stretech 10% or so. Webbing sits flat, and isn't as abrasive as rope on the boat, or paddler's hands, which is why I like it, but some people use rope.
Anyways, make it TIGHT for safety. You don't want it so that there is room to get a foot or something caught when a boat flips. No matter how tight it is, there will always be enough for a swimmer to grab it.
I would also say use one piece around the whole boat, so it spreds the tension evenly, tie it off on the bow or the stern. A follow-through figure 8 or a water-knot should be a good knot to use.
If you are trying to learn knot, this site is a good reference. Most of the rafting knots are under the rescue section: http://www.animatedknots.com
Also, a wise man once said, if you're in a pinch, and don't know if you did your knot right, then knot alot! |
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