Anchor Line

[Barrie McDonald]

I use a 40 foot chain along with 200 feet of 1/2 inch anchor line for my Hunter Legend 37. I was wondering if in fact the 1/2 inch line is adequate for the job, its a combination of nylon and natural fibers. What do other sailors think??

 

[Steve Dion]

What type of rope?

Barry:You did not mention they type of line that you are using. I'll assume that it is 3 strand nylon. According to the W/M Advisor, you may be a little light on the line size. They recommend 9/16" (breaking strength 9400lbs). The 1/2" rope is rated at about 7500lbs.I really do not think you have too much to worry about in less you are in a major storm. In this case you are probably going to have another anchor rig out too.So you are probably border line, but considering your 40' of chain, I'd bet your OKAY.

 

[Andy Howard]

Weakest link

Remember the integrity of your anchoring tackle is only as good as its weakest component, be it your line, shackles, cleats, etc.That said, 1/2" line should be Ok as Steve said as long as it is of quality construction. The cheaper stuff is for Bass boats.But if it was me, I'd go ahead and spring for 5/8" all nylon three strand.

 

[Dave]

I also recommend for your size boat 5/8 line triple strand nylon. This is what I use on my O'Day 35 which is 11,500 pounds of boat weight and less freeboard than your Hunter.Think of it this way, the first time you use the line it will start to deteriorate and lose some strength. Chafe starts to break fibers, weakening the line. So if you start out larger you have more safety margin. On the other hand 5/8 will stretch less so it will act a little less like a shock absorber than smaller diameter. I use a CQR 35 pound anchor with 18 feet of chain.How much do you use the anchor? If it is occasionally for day trips and short term where you don't leave the boat and in mud or sand bottoms the answer might be different than if you anchor overnight in a lot of rocks and gravel or coral.dave