Carving Out Cores
A modified roofing nail is perhaps the most versatile tool for removing core when sealing fastener holes. It is much easier to control than...
Elastic Mooring Systems
When Hurricane Irma plowed through the Florida Keys, it left behind both a trail of destruction and a wealth of information for us to...
Screw types prove their mettle in load testing.
The mechanics at work at the other end of your mooring line matter as much as the mooring line and pendant. In 2009, Practical...
Most well-made cleats fit the bill, but beware.
In the 90s, the Boat US Foundation performed a study of deck cleat strength. Testing was performed using 6-inch cleats of a number of...
Regalvanizing G70 Chain
As high tensile G70 chain becomes more prevalent in the marine market, Practical Sailor has been busy testing the limits of this material, which...
An Inquiry into Anchor Angles
Designers of boat anchors deal in a handful of variables. The holding capacity of an anchor derives from its fluke, particularly the flukes size,...
In Search of the Ultimate Boat Hook
The basic design of the humble boat hook hasn't changed much over the years, but it has seen upgrades in construction and materials, along...
Keeping Ice at Bay
Southern sailors often put their boats away for a few months when the water gets a little cool. Northern sailors have a more definitive...
Installation Tips for Deicers
When it comes to deicers, proper installation is key. Here are some tips to ensure your setup will optimize ice removal.The deicer should be...
Anchor Shackles Round II
In our recent investigation into anchor shackles, Anchor Shackles, the $15 Insurance Policy (PS August 2015 online), we were aware that our sampling lacked...
The 51 Foot Wharram Catamaran He Finally Found!
If you’ve ever wanted to build your own sailboat, you’ve undoubtedly come across Wharram Catamarans. These home-built DIY sailboat plans are a big hit...
Latest Sailboat Review
Vancouver 27 Used Boat Review
I was single handed on our Islander Bahama 30 on a spectacular fall afternoon, white caps dancing on the blue waters of Plumper Sound...