Myths & Facts

Fact: Modern designs and state-of-the-art engineering have made anchors not only better, but lighter, too! In several real world tests, including one conducted by the U.S. Navy, the best holding anchors were actually among the lightest! Anchor design has more effect on holding power than weight.

Fact: Not anymore! Many materials are now stronger than steel. For example, high-tensile aluminum-magnesium alloy is well-suited for anchors and is, pound-for-pound, or kilogram-for-kilogram, more than twice as strong as steel.

Fact: Not so! Different designs and different materials make anchors perform very differently. When you consider the value of the boat an anchor is protecting (your boat!), an anchor is no place to economize. It pays to buy the best performing anchor.

Fact: Appearance can be deceiving. Technical designs, manufacturing processes and metal alloys go through varying degrees of quality control and some are just plain better. Be sure to look for independent testing of anchor holding power and approval from standards organizations, indicated by “ABS Type Certification” (ABS is the American Bureau of Shipping) or similar.

Fact: It’s not so simple. Your anchor is just one part of a total anchoring system. It’s made up of the anchor, chain, rope, shackles, deck gear, and … your own anchoring skill and knowledge!