Hmm, I bought my tool long ago. Perhaps they've gotten more conservative in their ratings. Just the same, most WM stores have the big nicopress tool and if you went all nicopress you could have new rigging in an hour at a fraction of the cost of a rigging shop, including WM. I've never really liked the look of nicopress fittings but since they're used on the upper end of the standard rig I have to assume they'd be safe for the lower end. Norm Norm, Before using a hand/wrench tool on your shrouds and stays you might want to check and see if that tool is indeed suitable for standing rigging. These types of tools are usually for lifeline rigging and specify use for that type of application. I have seen small hand/wrench models sold as 'emergency tools'. I have worn out 3 of the hand wrench models used as directed, on lifelines, when the proper tool was not available. If it were me (I am actually having all new shrouds and stays made up due to a new mast) I would send my work to Mr. Montgomery, and get it done right. How fortunate are we as a group of Owners to have the original Builder/Designer available for assistance!?!! Just my 2 cents worth and you know what you paid for it. PS Having your rig come down in your lap is at best inconvenient and at worst dangerous and usually expensive! BTDTGTTS It is always embarrassing. G.Oberbeck M-17 #316a