Noelex,
We have tested a
steel and alloy version of the Spade 80, so 16kg and 8kg. Frankly cannot tell the difference, except for the weight. They both set in the same distance, they both turn, or shuffle. They both sommersault identically and if you do a
winch pull test they develop the same awesome holding capacity. They both dive and if loaded sufficiently disappear. And they fit our bow roller! We have been sufficiently confident to use the alloy Spade on a
cruise to and from the Gold Coast, stopping and
anchoring, Sandy Bay, Broughton, Laurieton, Trial Bay, Coffs (anchored in the harbour) Byron Bay and then a variety of places on the Gold Coast and then repeated on the way back. They do not carry mud. Never a problem - and it is inevitable that you enjoy 35
knot gusts (I admit not that high) in an anchorage on a
cruise of that duration and some of the
anchorages are pretty exposed to swell. Interestingly the alloy Spade will be stronger than the stainless version.
Spade are not an economic option here, in Oz.
We carry an FX23. We have never found a problem with it shuffling round but have never tried a 180 degree pull - its on the list. I'd rather carry a Fortress than a concave.