Winches Part 2

ConclusionTesters found something to recommend in each of the winches. It came down to preferences. Our focus on drum surface adaptations showed the new...

Winches: Ratios and Reality

When comparing winches, its important to understand how input and output interface. The winch handle is a rotary lever that is the first stage...

Sewn Splices Two-Year Followup

The true test of marine gear is not whether it works when installed, but rather how it functions after years in the field. To...

The No-sew Webbing Strap with Link Buckle

Weve sewn our fair share of eyes in nylon webbing, but heres an easy no-sew alternative for creating a webbing strap with a buckle...

Fitting a Roller Furling Line

Replacing the roller-furling control line is an easy do-it-yourself job for the boat owner. Inexpensive, double-braid Dacron is a fine choice for furling lines...

Testing a Dynamic Traveler

Sailors gaze longingly at the rope wall at the local chandlery, coveting rope made from exotic fibers that promises ultra-low stretch and light weight,...

Refining Furling Line Fairleads

There was a time when headsail handling meant snapping on bronze piston-hanks and hauling on a smooth-running halyard. Times have changed, and now its...

Untangling Furling-line Fairlead Logistics

Headsail furling on sailboats 40 feet and shorter should be able to be accomplished with a hand-over-hand pull on the furling line. If a...

Going Soft on Shackles

Fiber shackles have been in use for centuries-the simple knotted toggles provided all manner of service on square-riggers and even older craft. When made...

UV, Chafe Protection

What We FoundIn our search for the best way to protect a stitched loop or splice, we made several interesting discoveries.None of the liquid...

The Great Loop – The Basics

Join us this week as we discuss taking a sailboat around North America's great boating adventure - The Great Loop. We discuss advice from...
Tartan 30 Boat Review video from Practical Sailor

Tartan 30 | Boat Review