I'm surprised and happy the weight difference is only 10 lbs, makes me happier about the 12k. As for synthetic lines, I've heard various for and against, and like anything else, there are pros and cons to steel line and synthetic. Synthetic can be stronger, is lighter (think having to walk up a hill while pulling either lighter rope, or heavy steel cable), you don't have to watch for kinks which would weaken steel cable, and you don't have to worry that if it snaps it could take your arm/leg off.
On the other hand, you have to watch out for rocks, and carry a blanket or towel to put down so you don't fray the line, it can also deteriorate over time due to exposure, so you need to keep it covered.
Steel line is strong, won't fray as easily as synthetic over rocks, and is pretty durable. It can rust over time, and you have to make sure the line doesn't ever kink as this weakens it. It's a lot heavier (as we read in that article, every lb counts), and harder to work with, you need to always wear gloves to avoid cutting your hands. You have to stand clear of line, or put a heavy blanket over the line (many don't) when in operation as there's always a chance it could fail and seriously injure someone.
So pick your poison I guess? Our badlands will work with synthetic, but it's a little pricey at around $300 bucks, so it's not a priority for me to get it, bit it's deffinately on my list for the future.
Before the I get the line I still need;
Winch bumper (this spring)
33x10.5 15's (this summer)
Roof rack w/lights
Build my storage system in the back
Custom hitch or door mounted dual Jerry can holder (can't decide which yet)
Custom water tank for rear passenger foot well
THEN I'll get the line
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