What are the blocks rated at? Are they singles, doubles or triples (number of pullies/block)? I have been using 1" manila, which is rated around 8,000 pounds, I think, so don't quote me on that. You might want to check out Timber Framing #67 March 2003, Grigg Mullen's article Raising Calculations and Prep. I want to switch to a lighter, modern rope but havent as of yet. Tim