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Mainsheet systems – how do they work? A rough guide to mainsheet purchase systems by Upffront.com

Vang purchase system 1

Image source - Stock images

 

Mainsheet systems, simple yet vital hardware, play a crucial role in sailboat operation due to their constant use. A block and tackle or ‘purchase’ system is a form of mechanical advantage, where the input force is multiplied through a series of pulleys or blocks to create a much larger output force. Trying to understand how to achieve different purchase ratios might seem daunting to the uninitiated, but it’s quite straightforward once you know some basic principles. In this blog we will guide you through different purchase systems used on modern sailboats. 
 

Backstay purchase systems for small keelboats

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We have previously reported on the benefits of composite backstays: to reduce weight aloft and increase performance. An effective control system to finely tune backstay load is equally important, particularly for a race yacht. In this blog we look at 3 popular configurations for backstay purchase systems using block and tackle. 

 

Wichard MXEvo 2:1/3:1 Blocks - Often imitated but tough to beat

Wichard MXEvo on boom

 

Wichard’s expertise comes from over 100 years of forging safety parts for the manufacturing industry, so when it came to designing boat fittings, strength and safety have always been at the top of their priority list.

 

This is evident in the Wichard MXEvo 2:1/3:1 Block range, but it is the simple, functional design that makes this piece of hardware stand out from the crowd.

Antal Barber Block – Impeccable Design

Sailboat with Spinnaker Flying

 

It’s no secret that we’re big fans of the cool gadgets that Antal manufacture. These are often the subject of our blogs – previously, we’ve delved into the Antal Roller Cleat, the Antal Soft Loop Hook and the Antal Electric Winch Range, to name a few.

 

This time, we’re taking a look at the Antal Barber Block – a tough, well-designed block created specifically for barber-hauler applications or code zero tweaker systems.

Best Sailing Boat Blocks in 2023

Sailboat Mastbase blocks

 

In this blog we take a quick look at what is new and/or interesting in the sailing block world in 2023.

Morfrac Systems Discuss the Future of Deck Hardware

Image Credit: Botin Partners 85 (2020), via Morfrac Systems

Image Credit: Botin Partners 85 (2020), via Morfrac Systems

 

Deck hardware has come full circle. Now, designers favour simple designs that make use of high-performance materials over complex concepts. We spoke to Nicolas Goldenberg of Morfrac Systems, the mind behind the disruptive morfblock, about the evolution of deck hardware and his predictions for the future.

We are constantly reporting on the latest innovations in the marine industry which offer weight savings whilst, at the same time, increasing safety factors. The result: lighter, faster, safer and more exciting sailing.

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