A fiber optic cable having at least two strength components (20), an optical transmission omponent (12), and at least one tensile strength member (26) disposed generally adjacent at least one of the strength components (20), a strength member (26) to strength component (20) tensile strength ratio being about 0.1 to about 0.3. In another aspect, a fiber optic cable having at least two strength components (20), an optical transmission component (12), and at least one tensile strength member (26) being generally interposed between the optical transmission component (12) and at least one of the strength components (20), the tensile strength member (26) being multi-functional in that it preferably provides tensile strength and waterblocking. And in another aspect, a fiber optic cable with strength members (20) and strength components (26) comprising respective tensile strength ratings and defining an overall tensile strength rating ratio of about 0.25 to about 0.5.