A method of preparing a cable comprises extruding first layer of polymeric material upon at least one insulated conductor; serving a first layer of armor wires upon the polymeric material; softening the polymeric material to partially embed armor wires; extruding a second layer of polymeric material over the armor wires; serving a second layer outer armor wires thereupon; softening the polymeric material to partially embed the second armor wire layer; and optionally extruding a third layer of polymeric material over the outer armor wires embedded in the second layer of polymeric material.