Split Rings vs Cut Eye
 

Plugs like Gibbs, Super Strike etc come with cut hooks(usually Mustads, but thats a different story) and other makers such as Tattoo and Hab's use the uncut hook(usually VMC but again another story)with a split ring. Now I know this makes teh hook stronger and more corrosion resistant, but it also makes the hooks hang lowere(even though the VMCs have a shorter shank).

Any opinons on this? Thanks.

I don't trust split rings.

Really? You mean you think the cut eye of a hook is stronger than a heavy duty split ring?

E cut eye foooo dis

I never put a force gauge on them or did a pull test or a fatigue test to compair the two. I wonder if anyone has. Seems to me that the cut "loop" would actually stain harden when the loop is plierd back into place. It just seems more solid. Split rings are like a spring. I think it would be easier to "spring them" or have them fail due to repeated flexture. I don't think cut hooks flex as much. I wonder if there is any data on the "ratings" of different cut hooks and split rings (like barrel swivel ratings).

I would think that different manufactures cut hooks and split rings would be better. Theres got to be variation between manufactures.

I've read before of alot of guys cutting VMCs and have very good luck with them. I also know that you can get split rings in heavy duty. The ones I got are too skimpy. I better get rid of them.

Keep in mind that when a large fish puts pressure on either a split ring or cut hook the fish will generally do it gradually with the high probability of later increasing pressure from say a rolling wave or a drag that is tightened late in the fight. I think the potential is there for opening a cut hook; I'll take my chances with a split ring...

Thanks for the link Bernzy, it was very helpful. Very interesting about how Mustad cuts the open eye hooks first THEN tins them as opposed to cutting a VMC yourself.

My guess about brands like Tattoo and Habs is that they really think out the placement of how long the length is of the HD swivel and hook so it doesnt interfere with other hardware. What I mean is, upon casting, a hook doesnt get caught in the lure' "eyeball gap" or upon its other treble.

When I start messing with my plugs like Gibbs etc, adding this extra length by putting the swivel can scre it up bad. I hope I explained this right. Do you follow what I mean? :)

Take a plug, put a hook on it with a split ring and hang some weight from it....99.99 percent of the time the hook will straighten before the spilt ring...try it, you'll be surprised.

been making plugs for a long time and always used split rings. Totally agree with Hab and Tattoo try the test and the cut hook will open first. it just make physical sense that there will be a metallic weakness from the cut.

Plated after cut FINE...............Cut after Plating a NO/NO the PLUG is now open to corrosion ...................

Just curious...is the problem of a lower hook bad for hookup or does it hurt the action of the plug?

-spence

Great Question! Thats basically what it all comes down to.

I use 4H extra strong split rings on my plugs and they are rated for 115 pounds. I don't think they'll break on you.