Spitsplices

Spitsplices is a term used to describe a method of joining two pieces of rope or cordage using saliva as a lubricant or adhesive. This technique is particularly associated with historical sailing practices, where sailors might use their own spit to help them work strands of rope together when splicing. The moisture from the saliva could temporarily soften the fibers, making them more pliable and easier to manipulate into the desired splice.

While effective in a pinch, spitsplicing is generally considered an inferior method compared to modern splicing techniques that utilize specialized tools or artificial lubricants. The use of saliva is unhygienic and can weaken the rope over time as it dries and potentially encourages microbial growth. Furthermore, the bond created by spitsplicing is not as strong or durable as a properly executed splice.

In contemporary rigging and ropework, spitsplicing is rarely, if ever, employed. Modern methods prioritize strength, longevity, and cleanliness. Sailors and rope workers today rely on a variety of established splicing techniques, such as eye splices, short splices, and long splices, often using tools like fid s and marlinspikes, and sometimes employing lubricants like tallow or specialized rope conditioners to achieve secure and reliable connections. The term "spitsplices" thus serves more as a historical curiosity than a practical skill in modern contexts.