The ropes of 16 mm and above are suitable for hand hauled flying in theatres and for control lines on counterweight cradles.

Manila is quite hard on the hands and can leave small fibre splinters in soft skin. Flax hemp is a softer option if the ropes are to be used frequently.

Manila has about one third the strength of polyester but it will not melt when left near a hot lamp [burns at 711'F]. Manila has poor resistance to shock loads because of its low stretch properties. The natural appearance of the rope makes them useful for set dressings.