This guy has done a lot of testing on old ropes and slings:
https://www.facebook.com/SiebertResearch/?fref=nf
Can't remember all the details, but my recollection is that a properly stored unused rope doesn't lose any strength (at least in static tests - he didn't seem to do drop tests). Slings can be dodgy, but mostly because of weathering/UV damage, with the rule of thumb being that if they're furry, don't trust em. |