Does anyone know of someone in JHB that can sew bar tacks on webbing? Or who can rent out a machine that will be able to do that?

Try some of the 4x4 places in your area, you may find that some of them make up custom recovery straps and may be able to help you. I doubt they will be able to rate (in kN) their work though.

What do you need it for? A tape knot works just as well...

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Happy climbing
Nic

While a tape knot could work, it'll be tricky to make so many of them.

Why not use 8mm cord instead of webbing? You can put flexible PVC tubing over the cord to make it stiffer and keep the rungs open.

If you are willing to pay postage then there is a guy in Cape Town who could make them for you.

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Happy climbing
Nic

Spoke to Oom Sarel at Hikers paradise in Centurion a month back. He's got the right equipment to do it. They have a website for contact details.

Hi - Can also speak to Manny Cordeiro at Icarus Airwear, they are at lanseria airport. Manny repairs skydiving harnesses and has all the industrial sewing machines.