Emergency Rigging Cutters
The new Toolova Shootit 12 is a no-brainer at the high end-it cuts wire and rod almost like butter. At the low end, the old hacksaw does pretty well, too.
Multi-Tools: Leatherman Wave Covers the Waterfront
Leatherman leads the way with a quality tool at a good price. The Gerber 800 Legend, the Kershaw, SOG's Powerlock, and the Spyderco SpydeRench also top our list.
Brinkmann, LSI, Optronics Shine Bright in Spotlight Test
Sixteen lights from six manufacturers.
Personal Rescue Lights: Less Than Brilliant
ACR slightly outshone the rest of a dim group. These lights can help in a quick pick-up, but youre unlikely to see them beyond a half-mile in most sea conditions.
Wiz Oil Filter Cutter
All too often boat owners keep tabs on the condition of their engines by simply running them: If they start and run smoothly...
The Happy Hooker and Other Ingenious (de)Vices
Boat hook attachments to make docking and picking up moorings less terrifying.
Looking for the Perfect Inflatable Pump
The time it takes to fill an inflatable with air to the proper pressure is a function not only of the size of the...
Lifesling Goes Throwable
Were safety conscious at Practical Sailor. Readers know that, from the numerous articles about our in-the-water and bench tests. We rarely fail to comment...
ITT Night Vision 260-A Star Among Night Vision Scopes
When the only thing that keeps you from going aground at night is an unlit channel marker buoy, a night-vision device suddenly becomes less...
Crimp Connections: AMP Super Champ and Ancor Our Top Picks
One of the most nettlesome areas of boating electronics is making dependable wire connections that will last for years. Because marine elements are conspiring...
Fast, Beautiful, and Practical – Meet the New Beneteau First 30
The Beneteau First 30 isn’t just another 30-foot cruiser — it’s the Porsche 911 of sailboats. Heritage performance, everyday usability, and thrilling design come...
Latest Sailboat Review
Pearson 30 Used Boat Review
The Pearson 30 was designed as a family cruiser and daysailer with a good turn of speed. The boat is actively raced throughout the country, however, with some holding IOR certificates, and many more racing in PHRF, MORC, and one-design fleets.