Crimps are aluminum-alloy sleeves made for monofilament connections. This type of crimp can be used on leader ranging from 50- to 900-pound test. Crimps are used mainly on heavier monofilament lines where they outperform bulky knots. The crimps pictured above work on 200- to 600-pound test.
These shorter crimp sleeves are better suited for cable. Longer aluminum crimps are preferred for monofilament because they grab more line and don't pinch a small area, which can cause damage to mono.
The basic crimping tool offers several hole sizes to fit the various sleeves used to meet the thickness of the line. For lighter lines that require smaller sleeves, you should always use a light-duty pair of crimpers so you don't apply too much pressure and damage your line.
To create a loop using crimps, start by sliding a sleeve that matches the thickness of the line onto the end of leader.
Taking the end of line, run it back into the sleeve leaving a loop that is larger than the one you plan to use. Bring the end of the line flush with the end of the sleeve so the line does not extend outside the crimp or get pulled inside.
With the end of the line flush with the edge of the sleeve, begin to slide the sleeve up the line to make your loop. Adjust the sleeve until you get a loop size that fits your needs.
Place the sleeve into the groove on the crimping tool that fits the sleeve you're using. Leave a small amount of the sleeve outside the jaws of the crimping tool.
Compress the sleeve with the crimping tool. With a small amount of the sleeve left outside of the tool, the sleeve should flare its edges so it does not pinch the line with the edge of the crimp.
The final crimped connection should look like this. The sleeve is compressed, but the line is not pinched and retains its full strength.
To add extra protection, tubing can be added to the loop before making your crimp. The tubing is also matched with the line size, helping you create a solid loop that is resistant to chafing.
When done correctly, crimps will give you a streamlined, solid connection that won't fail under pressure.
