I learned how to splice ropes with the same methods in Boy Scouts back in the '60s. I always wrapped my splices and tried to stretch them afterward to tighten up the splice. I took the wrapping off afterward. Never had a failure. I've still got my Marlinspike knife.I am impressed. The technique and capability of these men doing such work. And on wire rope of all things.. I have seen these in the field but never knew how it was done.