Doug Dotson wrote:
"Jeff" wrote in message
...

Michael wrote:

"Anchor weights, (also known as chums, kellets, sentinels, anchor
angels) have been used for generations to anchor boats more securely.
They almost double the holding power of the anchor and reduce the
working load of the anchor by up to 50%. They are an advanced
technique in safe, secure anchoring."

"The secret is to have it off the seabed at all stages of the tide."

"All chain anchoring....Trailer boats, power or sail .How it is
attached .Anchoring techniques
.How catenary affects anchor holding..Have a look at the video .See
demonstrations at boatshows "

URL:

http://www.anchorbuddy.co.nz/

Any thoughts?

A handy gadget to have, but not a necessity.


It is if you do any serious cruising. Close in anchoring with limited scope
is a way of life.

I guess I'm not a serious cruiser. When an anchorage gets too crowded
for proper anchoring, I move elsewhere.


It is useful if you find yourself anchoring in limited scope situations.


Right.


However, I wouldn't feel happy relying on one in high winds since its
advantage goes away when the rode is stretched tight.


No one suggested that a kellet is advantageous in this situation. In a high
wind
situation one must let out additional scope. No substitutes for that.


The web site makes a number of claims that might lead one too believe
you could get by with a smaller anchor in a blow. "reduces loads by
50%", etc.



Regards,
Doug

On Thu, 07 Apr 2005 19:56:46 -0400, Jeff
wrote:

The web site makes a number of claims that might lead one too believe
you could get by with a smaller anchor in a blow. "reduces loads by
50%", etc.

That's misleading. In my limited experience using a kellet (once, and
it was an improv), you can extend the useful grip of your anchor, and
somewhat lessen the scope without loss of anchoring due to the simple
action of altering the geometry of the catenary.

But as someone pointed out, if the rode goes taut, you just have a
heavier rode.

It's an occasionally useful stop gap and a wee bit of insurance if,
say, you are anchored with a 15 lb. Danforth or equivalent "lunch
hook" and the wind pipes up. Lowering a kellet can buy you additional
prep minutes to depart or to ready a more appropriate anchor.

YMMV,
R.