To swivel or not to swivel, that is...

[Cadence]

Originally Posted by rsn48

So I was snooping around Rocna resources, and I believe it is on the Rocna site, but Mr. Rocna (I know it's not his name, to lazy to look it up) suggests not to use a swivel as it is the "weak" link in the rode make up.

Comments and your experience?

I don't know but love the title. Act 1 scene 4 I think.

[noelex 77]

The first thing to try is a good quality rated bow shackle. The Crosby 209-A is a popular choice. This solution is strong, cheap and simple.

In some rare situations the vessel can do enough 360° rotations in the same direction, that twist in the chain can cause problems when retrieving the anchor. The second problem is how the anchor behaves if it comes up backwards. In these situations a swivel helps.

As has been mentioned, many swivels become the weakest link with any side loading. A simple solution is to use a few links of chain between the anchor and swivel (providing there is room). This allows enough articulation that side loading is less of an issue. There are a couple of commercial swivels where this is claimed to be unnecessary or even undesirable (such as the Ultra flip swivel) but it would be nice to see some independent testing of these claims.

A couple of points that should be considered:

Any bulk near the anchor will reduce the anchor’s ability to set, reduce penetration, and the ultimate holding ability. Some solutions are very bulky.

Some swivels can increase the lever arm on the shank, which increases the chance of bending the shank.

[CaptFigmo]

Short piece of chain from Rocna to swivel.
Then main chain to other end.
Works for me.

[rsn48]

"Short piece of chain from Rocna to swivel.
Then main chain to other end."

This is what is recommended on the Rocna site.

[Kenomac]

Lots of respondents just repeating what they’ve heard or read before, rather than successful users of high quality swivels.

Sleeping sound tonight in Nova Scotia with an Ultra swivel between me and my 60kg Ultra anchor.

[a64pilot]

Excepting that it’s a big thing and may not fit through everyone’s bow roller, the Mantus swivel answers every one of the concerns I can find, side loading and weaker than the chain etc.
I haven’t noticed any corrosion issue yet, perhaps when I’m always anchored they will appear, I’ll keep watch, but I think sometimes we worry about things that aren’t a problem.
Like the other day, when I was thinking why am I not hugely overzinced with 100’ of galvanized chain and a galvanized 40 kg anchor in the water?

[HankOnthewater]

If the original poster wants instantly another 45 opinions and maybe a few facts, then see this thread:
http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/...ed-200620.html.

BTW, still got my SS swivels for sale 7000 kg SWL . These being for sale is a fact, reason for selling them is my opinion.