Boat Maintenance

The Best of Bottom Paints

Spray-on WaxesThe December 2014 issue reported on our search for affordable spray waxes-liquid waxes that offer a glossy finish and some surface protection and...

VHFs, SSBs, and Reading the Weather

In the April 2015 issue, Practical Sailor evaluated four handheld VHF radios loaded with all the bells and whistles, including longer battery life, positive...

Fighting Mildew, Mold, and Lichen

Most boat owners regard their boat as a living, breathing thing, but when real living things-especially the microscopic variety-move aboard and start occupying large...

Slicing, Dicing Abrasion Data

For testing, we used the same abrasion rig we used to test sewn eyes and rope (see PS March 2015). A modified wood lathe...

Visible Harm Doesnt Tell Whole Story with Amsteel

Our testing made us wonder whether we are better off with a core-and-cover lifeline with a tough cover, like New England Ropes WR2, or...

Check for Abrasion Before Switching to Fiber

To see how chafe points can develop on stanchions, we ran standard steel cable through our test stanchion holes for an hour. As expected,...

Where Can I Find a Boats Stability Curve?

The article Dissecting the Art of Staying Upright (see PS June 2015 online) was very timely for me, but I am struggling with how...

PS Guru on Tour this Fall

Those who enjoyed our recent three-part special report highlighting the trends in sailboat design and construction-focusing on structure, stability, and performance - can thank...

Do-It-Yourself: Onboard Security

Some ports and anchorages are safer than others, but it never hurts to be cautious when it comes to boat security. When youre away...

Low-priced PLS40 Caulk Onboard

We usually use 3M polyurethane caulks for boat projects: 5200 for permanent fixes, or 4200 if its something that might need servicing later. The...

Beneteau 423: What You Should Know | Boat Review

Looking to buy a 40-45 foot sailboat? Considering a Beneteau 423? See a Beneteau 423 for sale? What are the pros and cons of...