Abstract: A self-locking tensioning bar usable for tightening a cord utilized to encircle a relatively large object, such tensioning bar being elongate and having first and second ends, with a longitudinally disposed slot disposed in the first end. A spaced pair of holes for receiving the cord are disposed in an offset relationship in the bar, with one of the cord-receiving holes located near the outer end of the slot, and consequently near the first end of the tensioning bar. One end of the cord is secured in the one cord-receiving hole, with the cord then extending around the relatively large object, and thence back through the other cord-receiving hole. The cord is brought to an initial degree of tension while the bar is residing in a substantially perpendicular relationship to the object, with the first end of the bar closely adjacent the large object, following which the cord is then anchored to maintain such initial degree of tension.

Abstract: A cinching device for tensioning and securing a line across a cargo load is disclosed which has a body formed with a sinuous guideway providing a first jam cleat so that frictional engagement between the line and the body increases as the line is drawn taut in the body of the device to secure the device to the line. An arcuate guide surface is formed in the body proximate the first jam cleat to permit movement of the line over the guide surface so that the line may be looped over an external anchor and pulled against the anchor and the first jam cleat to provide a mechanical advantage which is used to tension the line. The body of the cinching device also has a second jam cleat to receive and secure the line after it has been pulled taut by using the mechanical advantage inducing arcuate guide surface.

Abstract: A wild fowl call includes a silencer which is pivotally mounted to the sound box of the call. When the silencer is in a first position, an element lies between the arm and the sound box of the call to silence the call. The silencer may be rotated to a second position wherein the arm is free to move with respect to the sound box to operate the call.The silencer may be made from a single piece of wire and is preferably coated with a non-abrasive, resilient material.

Abstract: This invention relates broadly to an apparatus for shortening wires, cables and the like without requiring the disconnection of such wires and cutting off the ends thereof to achieve the shortening. The apparatus consists generally of a sheet metal or the like shortening device which has a degree of flexibility therein by means of which the shortening function is accomplished. The wire or the like to be shortened is affixed to lugs or the like which are struck from the edge of one portion of the device and from this portion extends a tail which is bent towards the aforesaid portion and the wire is affixed to the bend which is made in this tail portion. The amount of shortening of the wire is determined by the place where the tail is bent.