Folks have a fairly common misunderstanding of why using off brand products or the cheap version, especially with things like rope, is potentially dangerous. There seems to be this idea that it will just break because they use inferior components or processes to manufacture. Then the argument is made that it’s the same stuff just cheaper.
Is there a slight premium associated with buying Samson(amsteel)? No doubt. But not all of the premium is for brand name. Most of that premium is for the overhead costs associated with the quality control, engineering and design, testing, insurance, etc. you’re paying for the peace of mind knowing that odds are strong that your rope will do what it says.
the cheap stuff is made the exact same way, maybe, by the same folks, maybe. Probably actually. The difference is they forego all of the things listed above, and extend those savings to you.
only you can decide which is best for you.
I personally prefer the built in risk mitigation, and having my incentives aligned with a company looking out for its long term existence. I would buy the brand name stuff for 7.00 instead of the cheap one for 3.00...