What is the most common method used to make an eye or attach a wire rope to equipment?

The most prevalent method for creating an eye or attaching a wire rope to equipment is the use of a Crosby clip. This method involves securing the end of the wire rope to itself using a U-bolt and two nuts, which allows for a reliable and adjustable connection. The Crosby clip is favored for its ease of application and versatility across various lifting and rigging operations.

This attachment method is highly effective because it distributes the load evenly across the wire rope, minimizing wear and reducing the risk of failure. It is particularly ideal for temporary or quickly reconfigurable connections, which is often needed in the context of millwrighting and rigging.

Thimbles, while also effective for creating eyes in wire ropes, do not secure the wire itself and require additional hardware to complete the connection. Swage sockets are a more permanent solution that requires specialized equipment and may not be as flexible in terms of reusability. Using a bolt to attach wire rope is not a common practice, as bolts typically do not provide the same level of strength and security as the other choices. Therefore, the Crosby clip stands out as the most common and practical method for attaching wire ropes in rigging applications.