Off-the-Shelf Marine Toolkits

We looked at 11 pre-packed sets of tools. Some were OK. None would be enough on its own.

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...

Can a Normal Sailor Actually Buy a Foiling Dinghy Now?

Foiling sailboats used to belong to the extreme edge of the sport: America’s Cup teams, SailGP, Olympic sailors, Moths, kite foilers, and high-performance racing...

Latest Sailboat Reviews

Catalina 470 Used Boat Review

Although it conforms to CE ratings for ocean sailing, this boat is better suited for coastal cruising in comfort and short offshore passages. It's got a great set of layout options for living aboard.

C&C 40 Used Boat Review