Quickline Takes a Load Off
Using an elastic nylon riding stopper (aka snubber) is always recommended when deploying an all-chain rode. Snubbers act as shock absorbers between rode and...
Orion Reports on Defective Flare Investigation
In the July 2011 Mailport, Practical Sailor reported that a new Orion handheld flare had malfunctioned during an emergency training course at the Annapolis...
Emergency Rigging Cutters
Dismasting is right up there among a sailor's worst nightmares. When a mast comes down at sea, no matter how or why, there's tremendous...
Power Tools for Restoring Gelcoat
In our test of acrylic-type gelcoat restorers, we polished one panel on a 1972 Oday Javelin with 3M Finesse-It II and waxed it.Practical Sailor...
Good Lookin Leica
Sight is the mariners most important sense, and tools that enhance visual acuity can be worth their weight in gold. Leicas newest addition to...
Practical Sailor Tillerpilot Test: the Simrad TP10 and the Raymarine ST1000 Plus
The last time Practical Sailor looked at tillerpilots (Sept. 1, 1996 and Jan. 1, 2001), testers concentrated on a series of bench tests evaluating...
LED Flashlights: Tektite Expedition Best Value
Most of us have had the annoying experience of the bulb failing in our flashlight, usually at a less than opportune moment. Even when...
Offshore Log:Life With The Little Wonder
The search for potable water is the bane of the long-distance cruisers existence. In the US, we take cheap, easily accessible water of decent...
Deck Gear Clamp-down: Cam Cleat vs. Self-tailing
To hold a line upstream of a winch you need a jammer or clutch. Rope sizing is important. Small lines slip, big lines won’t...
Portable Sailing Tools for Tracking and Tuning Boat Speed
The marine GPS receiver in its purest form is meant to answer three important questions: Where are we? What direction are we going? How...
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...
