Roger Long wrote:
He gave the whole lecture on cotter pins which I think was
basically, ends cut short and spread no more than 15 degrees, then
taped.

Works for me, I like 10 degrees.

This approach creates sharp snags, thus the tape.

That's while files and grinding wheels were invented.

I’m using split rings
for the time being and keeping a close eye on them but they have ends
that can snag rope and lead to pulling out.

Not on my boat.

I’d like not to depend on tape to protect
sails and fingers anymore than necessary.

Why not take a first aid class. They teach you how to tape things.

Lew