Chain hook for Catamarans...

[thinwater]

or anyone that uses a bridle a lot, for that matter.

I had been hunting around for something better than a regular hook. I wanted a few additional features. Whether they prove valuable, the season will tell:

• A Latch. The chain is not likely to come out, but it can happen with a long bridle when it rests on the bottom (common with cats).
• Integral with the bridle. Just to neaten things up.
• Rope eye. If it is going to stay in place all of the time, I need a hole to hitch the rode to (rolling hitch, prussic).

So I tried this (see image and there are more descriptions on my blog, listed below).

It is 3/8" x 3" x 4" and is designed for a working load of 3200 pounds with only one eye hooked, enough for my boat (PDQ 32). I tested it at 1300 pounds (one eye), about all it will ever actually see, and it didn't flinch. ABI makes something simpler out of 5/16" SS that seems successful.

Thoughts? If it is what I like, I will make it in SS for next season.

[GordMay]

ABI's "Chain Grabber" sells for about $20
(less bridles, shackles, & chain)

I like the longer jaw on yours.