Harken’s Carbo Ratchet Blocks
Made from fiber-reinforced plastic, these blocks are stronger and lighter than their predecesors, but a little more costly as well.
Reefing Preferences from the Pros
We surveyed a cadre of experienced delivery skippers from around North America to find out what systems and gear they favor for reefing mainsails, and to find out what they don't like, and why.
Discount Options for Sails
We web-surfed our way to some real bargains on working sails. It takes time, persistence, and a little self-education, but there are good deals out there.
Seldén’s In-Mast Furling System
There's not much new about in-mast furling, except for those spars that now accommodate sails with full-length vertical battens.
Seldén’s In-Mast Furling System
There's not much new about in-mast furling, except for those spars that now accommodate sails with full-length vertical battens.
Chainplates Revisited
Chainplate failures aren't common, but when one occurred on a new boat during its inaugural sail—with our reviewer aboard—we knew it was time to investigate.
Mainsail Track Hardware
The systems used to attach a mainsail to its mast have come a long way, and the variety of options now available plays to the advantage of the consumer.
PS Advisor: 12/04
Leaving Your Mast Stepped?Every year when I go to haul my boat I face a certain dilemma. Should I keep my mast in place,...
Scully Rig
It comes in a box the size of a golf bag, and all you have to add is the boat.
Snuffer Test
Among off-the-shelf options for taming spinnakers, we favor North's SnufferPlus for its refined design, lighter weight, and moderate price.
Latest Logbook
Practical Sailor Logbook – September 2026
In September we tour the Hans Christian 48T — the offshore cruiser many sailors call the holy grail — walk the custom Antigua 60...
Video: The BEST Sailboat You Can Buy for $35,000 – Catalina...
If you’re searching for a mid-30-foot sailboat, affordable cruising sailboat, liveaboard sailboat, first sailboat, or a capable used sailboat for coastal cruising, the Catalina...
Latest Sailboat Reviews
Learning by Doing on a $5,000 Catalina 30 Mk II
When Davis’s mother started talking about wanting to do something “big” for retirement, Davis and Gloria half-jokingly threw out an idea that seemed suitably...
