Armorgalv vs. Hot-Dipped
As part of our investigation into anchor chain and its attachments (see PS January 2015 and June 2014 online), we examined new galvanizing processes....
Does G70 Have Risk of Hydrogen Embrittlement?
Mention galvanized G70 chain in any discussion, and one of the first comments will be a question of the risks of hydrogen embrittlement. Though...
Anchoring in Squishy Bottoms
In the summer of 2014, Fortress Anchors, the maker of a popular aluminum Danforth-style anchor, conducted a series of anchor-holding tests in Chesapeake Bay,...
Galvanized Coatings Test
Corrosion attacks anchor chain long before it has reached the end of its useful life, and corrosion begins as soon the galvanized coating fails....
Estimating Galvanized Coating Thickness
There are no industry standards for how thick a galvanized coating should be on an anchor chain or mooring chain, and manufacturers don't publish...
Survey: Mainsail Track Hardware
It has been almost 10 years since Practical Sailor weighed in specifically on mainsail track hardware (see Practical Sailor, Feb. 1, 2005 online). At...
UV Protection for Dyneema
In your recent review of shackles (PS, September 2014), you tossed in a statement about recoating the soft shackles bimonthly with a UV protectant....
Top Whipping Twines
How we testedTo determine strength, each twine was pulled to failure by wrapping it around a 1-inch drum and pulling four to 16 strands...
Rope Clutches Tighten Their Grip
Ronstan ConstrictorLike a turbo-charged update of the old finger handcuff, the novel Ronstan Constrictor clutch relies on cordage, rather than cam-induced pressure, as a...
Higher Loads Call for Careful Installation
Rope clutches are a great innovation that can help sailors better control the lines that lead aft to the cockpit and those that cluster...
The ALL NEW Catalina 426 Full Tour
The Catalina 426 is the latest addition to Catalina’s renowned fleet, designed for sailors seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and versatility. This 42-foot...
Latest Sailboat Review
Martin 16 Used Boat Review
The Martin 16 is designed for adaptive sailing so people with disabilities can easily control sails and steering. It is an excellent choice for...