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⛵️ Trusted For 11 Years | 40,000+ Orders Shipped
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February 15, 2022 2 min read
The Laser has had many different configurations during its life, in recent years alongside the 8 to 1 downhaul system we have also seen more people switching out their 57mm ratchet block for a 40mm ratchet block.
The main reason is the thickness of the main sheet. Most Lasers have had in the past 8mm main sheets. The 8mm rope sat inside the sheave of a 57mm block and gives more friction therefore more grip. But in recent years around the boat park, you may have seen people using 6mm main sheet rope.
6mm lines like Kingfisher Evolution Sheet and Marlow Marstron are lighter and smaller creating less friction through your blocks, making your sailing easier. Therefore having more control over the main sheet in lighter winds and the sheet going out easier and quicker when gybing and starting the downwind leg.
The 57mm block is designed to work with lines up to 10mm and by having a 6mm line running through the block it will work fine but the block is not working at its peak performance.
The 40mm can also take up to 10mm rope but being narrower and shallower the sheave works very effectively with 6mm and 7mm ropes.
Another big advantage to having the 40mm ratchet block is, on a winder day when you have all your control lines pulled hard on and excess rope in the boats cockpit you are less likely to have your controls getting caught and tangled in the larger opening of the 57mm block.
Here are the links to the two blocks for you to compare. Which do you use?
Harken 2608 40mm Ratchet Block With Swivel
Usual excellent Zhik quality, hoping it helps keep my slight daughter warm under her wetsuit. Fast delivery from sailing chandlery, and an excellent price.
I wanted to practice making soft shackles, this rope is perfect and a good price. Thank you
I've used these gloves for gardening jobs for a few years now and they have good grip, flexibility and strength.
Excelent but was too big
Thank you for swapping to 30L
My boat is a Leisure18 built 1996 and I have just replaced the Cam Cleats with the identical model after they have probably been on since new.
Ive owned her since 2011. Let's hope the new ones live up to that.
It’s a well thought through cover that’s robust and with fastening clips it’s easier to put off and on. Most of the fastening straps don’t go full width, so easier still. Compared to the £100 one I had before that shredded within 6 months, this is far far superior.
10 out of 10. Exactly what wanted. Good quality and speedily delivered without any hassle.
Great product
Fast service
Good price
Thanks again always worth trawling through he off cuts. The off cuts are good quality and always worth a look if you need some.
Good advice regards flag staff rope on telephone, prompt delivery at a fare price.
Arrived quickly. Also replaced another item which was the wrong sizewith no fuss at all.
Really good service.
Perfect for getting out of wet clothes, and a great fit.
Ordered the rope I needed in the size I wanted. Delivered promptly and correctly.
Would definitely use again.
Thank you
I like the side entry low profile of these cleats for any line/rope that doesn’t need a fairlead such as external halyards, furling lines etc.
Absolutely brilliant service from sailing chandlery. The bag is excellent quality and spacious. Would highly recommend.
