STROFT NiTi Polywire

Predator leaders made of nickel-titanium alloys (NiTi) are enjoying increasing popularity – mainly because of their unique property of always springing back to their original state even after strong bending. However, problems sometimes arise when "connecting" these nickel-titanium wires to swivels, snap links, etc. – the breaking strength often fluctuates very strongly! This is partly due to the sharp edges of the crimp sleeve used. If this crimp sleeve is squeezed too hard, there is a risk of a notch effect at the end of the sleeve, and thus a risk of a reduction in breaking strength. On the other hand, if the crimping is too weak, there is a risk of slipping, which also leads to a reduction in breaking strength.

STROFT NiTi Monowire and STROFT NiTi Polywire solve these problems and are therefore the first choice when it comes to the ultimate predator leader.

The connections are quick and easy to make. No additional crimp sleeves, no crimping pliers – a simple, very easy-to-tie clinch knot with 4 turns is the solution – and with STROFT NiTi (for the thinner wires) it can even achieve a breaking strength of up to 100% of the linear breaking strength!!!

This was made possible by a very targeted adjustment of the alloy composition to the properties desired for predator leaders – namely: highest bite resistance, superelasticity, optimal (easy) knotability, best possible shape memory, maximum breaking strength/maximum knot breaking strength, sufficient elasticity (8%), and reflection-free surface. STROFT NiTi Monowire and STROFT NiTi Polywire fulfill all these properties in an optimal way. For example, a 0.20 STROFT NiTi Monowire has a breaking strength of 4.2 kg, which is almost achieved in the clinch knot!

The Monowire is fundamentally stiffer than the Polywire, which consists of several individual wires.

Therefore, if you want to use the clinch knot, you should choose STROFT Polywire from a diameter of 0.30 mm (because STROFT Monowire then becomes quite stiff).

The clinch knot on STROFT Polywire is still easy to tie even with a diameter of 0.60 mm.

However, if 0.35mm or 0.40mm STROFT Monowire absolutely has to be used (for example, if a very stiff leader is desired), then crimp sleeves are advisable. In order to minimize the disadvantages of crimp sleeves mentioned above, it makes sense to "de-sharpen" the relatively sharp inner edge of the crimp sleeve beforehand (e.g., with a 90-degree countersink). After that, a shrink tube should be pulled over the crimp sleeve, which reduces the kinking effect on the sleeve. The clinch knots can of course also be covered with a shrink tube, although this is not necessary for reasons of breaking strength – but perhaps for optical or practical reasons. For example, the snagging of aquatic plants can be reduced.