Beta Lines

[Does’ Leap]

As I was struggling with my leather lines in this colder weather (we buckle into the bits), I was wondering if beta remains flexible in colder weather. For those of you who use beta, could you let me know if this is true? What are other advantages of beta over leather and what width and length do folks use for logging?

Thanks.

George

[jen judkins]

Yeah, George the beta stays quite abit more flexible in the cold. It has to do with moisture content, I believe. Leather absorbs moisture whereas the beta does not. This is why leather is tough to work with in wet weather (at least at the buckles.) I love the beta lines.

[john plowden]

Beta lines work really well in cold weather – very flexible and durable – even when they get wet or muddy – you can maintain a good grip – kinda hard with leather – especially when wearing gloves or mitts – I switched several years ago and won’t use anything else in the woods – Leather is nice when it’s dry -I don’t know off hand how long mine are but I can hold the lines with extra from about three feet behind the evener –
John

[Plowboy]

Beta does remain flexible in colder weather. We have been buying Beta for 5 years or so to replace our worn leather. We always use beta for off the farm public events. Last year I bought two sets of team harness from a friend and both had good leather lines with them so I oiled them up and we use them in our two main farm teams. There’s nothing like leather but beta will last longer with less maintenance. Beta with extensive use will eventually wear at the hame rings but only the local Amish have experienced this with daily all day use. We prefer 3/4 in width for easier handling especially for tandem hitches.I’m going to get a new set of 6 up lines in 3/4 beta for our 12 horse hitch next spring. I wont use them alot and I can hang them up until the next time and they won’t need oiling. Some guys think they need 1 in or 1 1/8 but as an old timer once told me no man can pull hard enough on a 3/4 line to break it if it’s in good shape. As far as length some guys use 21 ft team lines so they can get around obstacles in the woods when ground skidding. If you use an arch you may not want the extra to keep track of. I hope I answered your questions.

[Does’ Leap]

I have been using my new beta lines for a couple of weeks now – what a difference. They are supple in cold weather, light, and easy to handle. Thanks for the advice. Anyone want to buy my leather lines?

George

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