| If I remember correctly, the #'s 302/316 refer to the alloy used in the
construction of the wire, and do not significantly impact its nominal
strength for one vs the other. The main differences are in the corrosion
resistance, for which 316 is the more resistant, and in the price.
Some years ago, I became curious regarding the real difference between
the two, and suspended short sections of each from a tidal piling
(alternately submerging salt water and air dry). At the end of several
months could discern no visual difference in the levels of rust or
cuprous corrosion (both minimal), and as a result determined that all
advice I had had to stick with 302 was probably well founded, especially
when price was considered. I have also never had a shroud break directly
as a result of a tension failure.
Since most of the rigging failures I have seen were the result of
structural mast design, use or construction weakness, or the direct failure
of a turnbuckle, pin or swaged fitting, I would not consider the 316 a
worthwhile option. In addition, most available swage fittings are type
302/304 ss anyway (unless things have changed radically in the last few
years), so 316 shrouds wouldn't really buy much if failure resistance is
what you're after.
By the way, most of the rust, corrosion etc. you are likely to see
between strands of twisted ss wire or at junctures with swage fittings
are not from the wire or fittings themselves, but from filings,
scrapings or other free floating impurities picked up in the manufac-
turing, transportation or storage process (even the swaging process
itself creates these slivers).
Relax and spend the extra money elswhere on something you didn't expect
to have the cash for. Its always a pleasant surprise to have spent
less than planned on a boat.
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