Most well-made cleats fit the bill, but beware.
In the 90s, the Boat US Foundation performed a study of deck cleat strength. Testing was performed using 6-inch cleats of a number of...
Adding Yarn Telltales to Your Sail
Fixed wind indicators tell the direction of the wind relative to the boat, but it is the flow within a few inches of the...
How to Stitch a Yarn Telltale to Your Sail
We tested three methods for threading yarn telltales; direct threading using a #18 sailmakers needle (0.080-inch), pulling through with upholstery thread using a #16...
Reading the Telltales on Your Sails
Even the most laid-back cruiser has days when he would like to get there an hour sooner. But speed is not the only reason...
Re-evaluating Eye-splice Thimbles
A great many sailors believe a splice intended for high loads is not complete until it is fitted with a thimble. Undoubtedly, a thick...
Low-friction Rings
Ever since lightweight ball bearing blocks were introduced they have been the standard anywhere a line needed to change direction. Tackles run smoother, and...
Adding on a Ring? Let Us Count the Ways.
When it comes to attaching rings there are at least a dozen ways that work, each requiring different skill sets. In most cases, installation...
Penny Pincher Pawl Lube
Winch pawls require a different lube the rest of the winch. The only time they are moving is under practically no load, clicking along...
Sticky Luff Track Cure
Racers demand lightning-fast hoists. Cruisers tire of the effort required to grind a heavy main up a sticky track. Roller furler foils that have...
Undoing Mainsheet Twist
What kind of line do you use in your davit tackle? My lines keep twisting, chafing, and jamming. The ropes run crooked in the...