Chaining up: Socks vs Cables vs Chains

Ok, a few things...First, I know this isn't a topic for HH per se, but let's just say I trust the opinions of many who haunt this section a lot more than some Radio Rambo or Billy Big Rigger and his convoy of steering wheel ninjas that I might encounter in other sections.
So, the reason for starting what I hope will be a productive discussion regarding chaining up...well...being from the Midwest, I don't chain up much - if ever.
However, I'm strongly considering a move to the West Coast.
I should note that it is my personal preference to NEVER chain up, but I realize it's sometimes unavoidable (as far as I understand, the exception to this being OSOW where I'm guessing it's never even allowed? But as I currently only haul legal, hence the question)

So, OSOW excepted, what is anyone's preferences/opinions? Major pros or cons to each of them - chains, cables or socks? (as I have limited experience with this and only with chains, despite hauling mostly to the SoCal for the last 11 years)

All opinions and constructive advice welcome, and thanks in advance!

 

Seems reasonable. I realize chains are probably somewhat more durable, especially when you consider the context of where you're using them in a muddy off-road loading/unloading site.

I was under the impression tho, that cables were significantly easier to put on? (not that chains are that difficult, just maybe difficult to get RIGHT if you don't do it somewhat regularly to practice)
Seems like they're significantly lighter weight, too. And socks - I know some people that swear by them...But they're more expensive by a fair margin and I've heard some say they tear up easy?
Just wondered about people's experiences with each.

 

OSOW is something I've had a big interest in for awhile now. Tho, to be fair, is not the only area of interest. I mean who knows - I could go nuts and decide to move into hazmat tanker in the future, instead...But whatever direction I decide to take, I'm learning things along the way here. Always good to know things about other areas of an industry, even if it's an area you'll never be in yourself - just my take on that.
As for limiting the scope to this section of the forum...whatever I DO decide to go with, it won't be freight hauling. So why ask for every freight hauler's opinion - not to say they don't know anything...But I'm also not interested in a lot of troll comments, either, and I figure that's somewhat more limited here.
But I appreciate your candor and also sharing your experience with socks/chains!

 

That sounds similar to what I've heard and kind of expected. Cool!