New Mantus Swivel
In our article on anchor swivels (see "Anchor Swivels: Caution Required"), we reiterated our view that swivels are unnecessary in most anchoring situations. For...
How Well Do Swivels Reduce Twist?
We know the theory behind using anchor swivels: The swivel releases any twists in the chain when an anchored boat swings through 360 degrees...
Changing Views on Chain Hooks
There are a number of ways to attach a snubber to an anchor chain. A gripping hitch, a soft-shackle, or a chain hook are...
A Different Approach to the Catamaran Bridle
When it comes to snubber sizes and diameters, catamarans present special challenges, and usually require a bridle, with separate lines leading from the hook...
Testing the Effects of Chain Hooks
During our research, nearly every maker of industrial chain offered the same caution: Using a generic chain hook can reduce the link strength by...
Dinghy Anchors: Big Anchor Tech Scaled Down
Sailors spend considerable time pondering their anchoring arsenal for the mothership, but what about the dinghy? With the new Mantus Dinghy Anchor, it seems...
Testing the Limits of Tiny Anchors
Each anchor was pulled in both a straight line and at 90 degrees in both soft mud and firm sand at a 10:1 scope....
Anchor Swivels: Caution Required
Bearing FailureThe bearing where the two forks join and rotate is also prone to failure. Commonly, the bearing is a threaded stud set into...
Anchor Shackles: The $15 Insurance Policy
ConclusionThe Peerless and Crosby shackles all met or exceeded minimum specifications, and the Campbell shackle fell short by only a whisker. American-made shackles appear...
Pull it Until it Breaks
All testing was carried out at an approved test facility in Newcastle, Australia: J.L. Robertsons, which is adjacent to one of Australias large coal-mining...
The Performance Sailboat from Island Packet: Blue Jacket 40 Boat Review
Did you know that Island Packet got together with Tim Jackett from Tartan Yachts and C&C to build a performance oriented cruising sailboat called...
Latest Sailboat Review
Dufour 44 Used Boat Review
Aimed at avid racers or speed junkies making the transition to cruising, the Dufour 44 slides neatly into the niche between affordable boats with...