Please explain what you think would be gained by through bolting this arrangement. Even w/o setscrews, if this connection is as described in the explanation, it would be impossible for the stanchion/railing connection to separate w/o putting a pretty hefty bend in the railing, at which time I would think there would be other, much more critical concerns. Adding through bolts, IMO, would just be putting holes in the railing through which water (salt or fresh) could enter and perhaps, in time, cause problems.
All the above water related concerns already exist with the construction as made given the fact the sockets are not welded to the rails. My first choice would have been to weld the socket to rail connections as that geometry is perfect for welding. However, I understand that there is a cost issue with doing that. We all have our cost constraints. I would also add in a couple of airation/weep holes on the bottom side of the rail so any possible water infiltration could easily drain out - even, or perhaps more importantly, if the joints were welded. I don't think the set screws really do much of anything except aid in keeping the rails from rotating and possibly rattling, both not desirable so therefore needed in that set-up. With either welded or through bolted fastening, there would be multi-axial structural benefits. By using either welded or through bolted connections, that entire rear pulpit becomes one very solid structure.
TACO METALS, just make sure it is 16GA. I believe they still have a warehouse in New Bedford, at least I think they had one there about 15 years ago. Buy the way all of there SS tube is polished.
I would not have installed these unspotted, just a force of habit.
The definition by ISAF is: "Lifeline - Rope or wire line rigged as guardrail / guardline around the deck."
Having been involved in the inspection process, for an off-shore race, I dug out my 2012-2013 season ISAF Offshore Special Regulations. If I had followed the "rules" during those inspections, and was the final arbiter, none of the boats I inspected qualified yet every boat I inspected or helped inspect still raced. I was just a grunt/helper set of eyes for this but found oodles more than the ISAF sanctioned "inspector".. Scary really.
Trying to think of a pun involving "wench base" and "wife acceptance factor".
Is "wench base" like a first wife?
Try a local canvas shop that makes biminis an dodgers. They order the tubing in 20 ft sections and will probably sell you a piece.
This is probably an OSHA standard for holding a person from falling [5000 pound tension load].
