Abstract: Systems usable for such diverse applications as tying artifacts to supports, bundling objects into a structurally stable unit, and assembling system components. Those systems include a flexible restraint such as a rope, cord, wire, or strap and dislodgement resisting, rigid or semirigid protective devices. These devices: (a) can be directly assembled to the restraint at any desired location therealong, and (b) protect the artifact and/or the restraint against damage, even in the face of vibration, jarring, and careless handling of the artifact or the flexible restraint.