Mounting the ‘Odd’ Bulwagga Anchor
In several of the most recent reports on anchor testing, Practical Sailor has commented favorably on the setting ability and holding power of the...
Corroded Whale Gusher 10 Pump
A photo in a report on manual bilge pumps (in the April 15, 2000 issue) showed a Whale Gusher 10 that a reader had...
Mounting the ‘Odd’ Bulwagga Anchor
In several of the most recent reports on anchor testing, Practical Sailor has commented favorably on the setting ability and holding power of the...
Offshore Log: The Right Gear for the Job
Calypso has deck hardware from most major companies. Here's what's being used, and how the various pieces have held up.
Fiddle Blocks: 8 Brand Exam
Because fiddle blocks come in many sizes and, in many applications, are rigged with cam cleats, Practical Sailor gathered up for this review several dozen fiddle blocks—almost all fitted with cams, as well as beckets and swivel heads. û
Anchor Reset Tests
When direction is reversed 140°, a third of the anchors never broke out, another third reset at some length, and two never reset.
Topclimber: Going Aloft Solo
Figuring the best way to get to the masthead is one of those conundrums seldom resolved.
Lifeline Stanchions: New Aluminum Matella Is Super Strong
Cast bases outperform welded ones, so look to Spartan and Suncor.
Offshore Log:A Close Call with Underwater Corrosion
For years, we have harangued sailors about the need to do a careful survey of all underwater hardware every time the boat is hauled....
Offshore Log:Life with the Profurl
Our headsail reefing system, anchored by a Profurl C42 furler, has had its share of teething problems, most of which are associated with our...
Latest Logbook
Practical Sailor Logbook – October 2026
This month leans into used-boat value and hands-on maintenance: Tim Labute tours the traditional, shoal-draft Bayfield 32, Nick Nicholson revisits the much-requested Morgan 38/382,...
Video: How Old Is Too Old for Standing Rigging?
If you own an older sailboat, are shopping for a used sailboat, or are trying to understand the true cost of sailboat ownership, standing...
Latest Sailboat Reviews
Tartan 31 Piper: Used Boat Review
The Tartan 31 is one of the new line of performance cruising yachts from the venerable-and durable--Grand River, Ohio boatbuilder. In the last few years, Tartan Marine has come out with a range of new models, including the T-28, the 3500 and the 4600. A 41-footer is in the works. Both the 28 and the latest version of the 31 are part of the new Piper series, which are marketed in sailaway condition. Tartan has a reputation for solid construction and good workmanship and that's what the 31 is: solid and well put together. The hull is hand-laminated with alternating layers of chopped strand mat and unidirectional E glass. Behind the NPG/ISO gelcoat there's a layer of vinylester resin, which so far appears to provide the best osmotic blister protection available.
