"Jeff" wrote in message
. ..
* Milton Waddams wrote, On 2/23/2007 12:01 PM:
What is the best way to tie off the anchor chain in the chain locker?
Should it just be left free? I am reluctant to run a large bolt
throught the last link because I don't want it ripping through the
deck. It would be nice to have something easy to disengage rather
than
something real permanent. Any suggestions? As always, thanks.

Of course the bitter end should be attached to the boat. Can you
imagine how stupid you would feel if the chain got free and ran out to
the bottom?

However, ignore the amateurs that advise shackling the chain to the
boat. It should be attached with a length of line, strong enough to
hold the boat, accessible enough to cut with a knife if need be.


And, never listen to Jeff. He's an imbecile! So you tie the bitter end
of your all-chain rode to a length of anchor line. Then you make fast
the end of the anchor line to your boat. This is so you can cut the line
in an emergency to free your ship from the anchor/rode. Ever hear of a
chain stopper, big boy? A chain stopper
allows the bitter end of the chain to remain free of tension. If you
wish to free yourself from the anchor/rode in an emergency you're much
safer unscrewing a stainless steel shackle inside the boat. You need not
even tighten the shackle more than finger tight. That way you don't even
need tools to unfasten it.

You can stand on the bow with your knife in a seven foot storm sea and
fifty knot wind trying to cut your anchor rode. Not me man! I'll do it
from inside where it's safe.

Wilbur Hubbard