Mainsheet Ratchet Blocks

For what its worth...

Of the two you have listed Id say the Fred was better by miles however if you like Harken take a look at the bigger block as its much better than the 57.

I do find the fred doesnt handle thinner mainsheets very well however!

Ian

Andrew,

The "freddy blocks" are certainly very good indeed and look even better.  The harken hexaratchets are bulky but super reliable and confidence inspiring.

However, I just got my new 3000 and it has tiny 40mm harken carbo blocks throughout (Harken part 2636 I think, £22 each).  The ratchet block is mounted on the bridle (suggestion from Blobby on this site: cheers mate) with the two boom mounted blocks being plain. 

With off the boom sheeting, the small block = less things to clonk your head on.  Also if you mount the ratchet on the bridle, it needs to be small to get the best sheeting angles.  The rope grip with the small blocks seems fine - up to force 3 / 4 at least.

Raced off single handed (hence not legally!) against the laser 3000s in the the last race of the Nationals on Sunday and beat the entire fleet by a leg or more (actually the boat did - I mostly sat there)!  So it all seems to work.

I am sailing a laser 3000 which has been converted to aft bridle and off boom sheeting. I have been advised that a larger ratchet block will save the arms when it gets windy.

I dont use a jammer in light winds and dislike using one in strong winds so the need for a good ratchet block.

Many Thanks

Andrew

Freddy