A sail-maker has recommended that I tie my halyards to the shackles.
He recommended a bunt-line hitch.
There are a few variations of halyard knots.
Selden seems to ship with theses knots instead of splices.

Lots of advantages:

-DIY
-shorter than a splice.
-will not jam in a sheave like a tapered splice can.
-can be easily cut off and retied if worn.

Whats the catch ?