Cruising Sailors Forum Archive

Looks like the wrong block for that application, to me...

Hi Max,

That doesn't look like a trunion snatch block, one of those with better articulation would give you a fairer lead... However, IMHO a snatch block should not be used as a turning block like that, I don't think they're supposed to handle such potential loads... It would be fine if you used it as a fair lead back to a higher-load turning block like Brian mentions, but I think a regular or ratchet block is better for a spinnaker sheet lead, you really don't need the convenience of a snatch block for that, anyway...

I just use a Harken ratchet for my spin and code 0 sheets, seems to work pretty well... Lewmar makes a nice snap shackle that, when mated with a regular block, will clip nicely to a toe rail and give almost unlimited articulation... I don't like fixing a long shackle or something like that Wichard toe rail thingy, because it restricts you to using the same point all the time - and with sheets for a free flying sail, you often want to be able to change the block forward or aft, depending on the conditions - and a simple snap shackle allows you to do that in a jiffy...

Anyway, these are what I use - they work nicely, and also serve to keep the profile of the lead low and close to the toerail...

best regards,

Jon

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