Which of the following describes a Left Hand laid wire rope?

The correct response indicates that in a left-hand laid wire rope, both the individual wires within the strands and the strands themselves in the rope are twisted to the left. This characteristic twisting direction defines the rope construction and its behavior under load.

In right-hand laid wire rope, the wires and strands would twist to the right, which is the opposite of what is described as left-hand laid. Understanding these twisting directions is critical for identifying the rope's characteristics, such as strength, flexibility, and tendencies to unwind or set when under load.

Additionally, twisting both the wires and strands in the same left-hand direction enhances the integrity and performance of the rope for various applications, such as lifting and towing, making it essential for Boatswain's Mates to accurately identify and work with different laying methods in wire rope. The option that suggests braiding pertains to a different construction technique altogether and does not apply to the traditional lay definitions of wire ropes.