What materials are commonly used to make rigging slings?

The correct choice consists of materials that are widely recognized for their strength and versatility in rigging applications. Wire rope, fiber webbing, and chain are standard materials used to make rigging slings due to their ability to handle heavy loads and resist wear over time.

Wire rope is constructed from multiple strands of wire twisted together, providing excellent tensile strength and flexibility. This makes it ideal for heavy lifting and securing loads. Fiber webbing, typically made from synthetic fibers like nylon or polyester, is lightweight, flexible, and offers high strength-to-weight ratios, which makes it suitable for a variety of lifting tasks where gentler handling of the load is necessary. Chain slings offer durability and resistance to abrasion, making them perfect for heavy machinery and rough handling scenarios.

Other options include materials that may not provide the necessary strength or durability required for rigging slings. For instance, wood, plastic, and rubber are not typically used in high-load applications due to their limitations in strength and resilience. While there are applications where synthetic materials are solely used, they are not the only materials suitable for rigging slings, making the chosen answer more comprehensive and applicable in typical rigging scenarios.