Vapor Line says it's rated for over 5,134lbs. Which I'd consider adequate....since even a knot on the line, which might reduce it's rating by 25%, still offers considerable strength (>3,800lb). But as the same page notes, the hitch, a prusik, moves it down with a "Safe Working Load - 300lbs with supplied Prusik" (NFI). Hence my asking what was the hitch cord rating. So while the rope may be good, one can be pushing the limits with the hitch material (7mm rope with ??mm cord). I'm not comfortable with that prusik, especially not considering dynamic loading in case of a fall.
My preference today is to stay above 6,000# (300x20). Generally, that puts one up to 8mm and above. Personally, I go to 9mm, not for the strength alone, but a balance between hand purchase, strength and all the accessories that fit it, should I need it. I also have some 10mm rope...love it for hand purchase for sure (still playing around with it, so TBD). But the greater rope diameter generally demands a greater diameter in hitch cord, otherwise the performance may suffer. Key among that is being able to have a friction hitch that will break under one's full load. That's NOT happening when the hitch to rope diameter get down to a 60% ratio or below. And in my experience it rarely works with most Amsteel. Smaller rope, small cord, I don't think equals the same type of performance.
My emphasis is not on numbers per se....it seeks a balance. I want something strong enough to support my dynamic weight under oh-sh!t circumstances. Vapor Line and what I have I think does that, by itself, as the "rope". But we're hanging by a hitch cord...a 300lb SWL is pushing it. I want something thicker, stronger, not only to absorb a dynamic load, but just as importantly, break under load if Murphy's Law raises it's head and I need to get down. Go as light as you want, but there are trade-offs...realize what one is giving up by doing so. Stay safe!!!!
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