[C320-list] Gypsy

[Jack Brennan]

I've never had a swivel. I just use a shackle. Here's a Practical Sailor article discussing them: https://www.practical-sailor.com/sails-rigging-deckgear/anchor-swivels-caution-required

I too have the Maxwell 500 rope-only windlass that came with older 320s. I believe that Maxwell used to make a kit that converted it to handle chain, but that disappeared many moons ago.

As I hit 70 and upgraded to a 35-pound Manson supreme anchor with 30 feet of 5/16 chain, I too started thinking about upgrading my windlass because it's getting more and more difficult to pull up everything.

As far as I can tell, there is no choice but to go with a new Maxwell vw10 or vw1000 due to the configuration. Defender seems to have the best prices, but these now start at $2,100.

I have been waiting for the price to fall, but it keeps creeping up.

Has anyone ever tried to mount a different, less expensive windlass on the 320? I'd be interested in hearing about it.

Jack Brennan
Sonas, 1998 Catalina 320
Tierra Verde, Fl.
[https://cdn.practical-sailor.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/p19smohij3nhm1sq29i5h5vdm48.jpg.optimal.jpg]<https://www.practical-sailor.com/sails-rigging-deckgear/anchor-swivels-caution-required>
Anchor Swivels: Caution Required - Practical Sailor<https://www.practical-sailor.com/sails-rigging-deckgear/anchor-swivels-caution-required>
Since 1974, Practical Sailor’s independent testing has taken the guesswork out of boat and gear buying.
www.practical-sailor.com

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From: C320-list <c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com> on behalf of Wandering Star via C320-list <c320-list at lists.catalina320.com>
Sent: Monday, September 2, 2024 2:56 PM
To: C320 Blog <c320-list at lists.catalina320.com>
Cc: Wandering Star <wanderingstar951 at comcast.net>
Subject: [C320-list] Gypsy

I mistakenly allowed my ex to remove the swivel between the anchor and anchor chain. He said, “don’t worry, when the wind changes the anchor won’t break free.”  Well that isn’t true. Took the boat out last night in a small protected Anchorage with a good holding ground. Got a good bite, but as the wind clocked around, I noticed I was dragging. A bunch of other boats had come into the small anchorage so I immediately started to pull up the anchor and realized that the anchor hooks with line he set up was way more convoluted than I wanted to deal with. So now, I’m contemplating adding a gypsy. And no, they are not cheap!

I have a windlass, but I have to pull the chain up by hand. So my question to the group is twofold. First, can you give me recommendations on a gypsy that has worked well for you. Secondly, can the gypsy go in the anchor locker or will it have to be mounted on the deck? I have space in the Anchor locker, but I’m not really too sure if it replaces the winch or becomes an addition to the winch. I’m thinking it replaces it.

Thinking that this might be a good “boat buck” item to splurge on. The strength won’t get better with age.  :<

Sara
Wandering Star
Seattle
#707/2000
Sara S.