Gear: Schaefer’s Ratchet Blocks

By Peter Nielsen

April 3, 2017

Block Party

Ratchet blocks are common on raceboats, but their benefits extend to cruising boats too. They have a ratchet that prevents the sheave from turning in one direction when it is loaded, but lets it spin when you ease the line. Ratchet blocks are especially useful for furling lines, making it easier to control the amount of sail you are letting out or taking in. Schaefer’s new M66-08 single ratchet block has an injection molded body and an aluminum sheave running on ball bearings. It can take up to 1/2in line and has a safe working load of 750lb. $85. Schaefer Marine, schaefermarine.com