Frequently Asked Questions
What are Fortress and Guardian Anchors made from?
Both Fortress and Guardian Anchors are made from hardened high-tech aluminum-magnesium alloy. Fortress Anchors are also anodized for a handsome and durable finish.
What is the difference between a Fortress Anchor and a Guardian Anchor?
Fortress Anchors are anodized, which means that the product received a chemically bonded coating. This process gives the Fortress Anchors greater corrosion resistance, and a more appealing appearance. Our other model, the Guardian Anchor, is not anodized, yet the strength is maintained.
Fortress Anchors’ shanks and flukes have a precision-machined finish, making them sharper and better, allowing the product to penetrate the sea bottom deeper, and thus provide more holding power.
Additionally, Fortress Anchors have both a 32-degree and a 45-degree fluke angle setting, while the Guardian only has a 32-degree fluke angle setting. The 32-degree fluke angle settings on the Fortress and the Guardian are good for most common sea bottoms such as sand, clay, or a mixture of the two.
The 45-degree fluke angle setting on the Fortress allows it to gain a superior hold in both soft mud and silt. Again, this 45-degree setting is exclusive to the Fortress series.
The other major difference is in the length of the warranty. Fortress Anchors have a Lifetime Parts Replacement Warranty, while Guardian Anchors have a One Year Parts Replacement Warranty. In both cases, the warranty is “hassle-free,” meaning that we make the warranty claims process as pain-free and quick as possible.
What if I damage a part of my anchor?
You can fill out our Online Replacement Parts Order Form, or you can call us to request a new part. The Fortress Anchor model offers a 100% Hassle Lifetime Parts Replacement Warranty. The Guardian Anchor model offers a One-Year Parts Replacement Warranty. The only cost to you is a small shipping and handling charge.
How much chain should I use?
We recommend using 6 ft (2m) of chain for every 25 ft (8m) of water depth. Coastal anchoring is often used in under 50 ft (16m) of water depth, so vessel owners commonly use 10-15 feet (3-5m) of chain with their Fortress Anchors.
Why should I use Fortress Marine Anchors’ Mud Palms?
From our customers experience, and our anchor test we have found that ‘Mud Palms’ help the anchor set faster in any sea bottom. We advice to install the ‘Mud Palms’ on the anchor and leave them on.
If I would like to mount my anchor on the bow, the rail, or on the deck, what parts are required?
Please see the links below for anchor mounting hardware:
Deck Chocks
4/20/23: Perko is no longer manufacturing deck chocks.
DEFENDER
https://defender.com/en_us/chocks
FISHERIES SUPPLY
https://www.fisheriessupply.com/marine-hardware/chocks-and-hawse-pipes
HODGES MARINE
Sea-Dog Stainless Steel Skene Chocks – 4-1/2″ (hodgesmarine.com)
I MARINE USA
Sea-Dog Stainless Steel Skene Chocks – 4-1/2″ (imarineusa.com)
Rail Mounts & Bow Rollers
http://www.windline.com
7/9/21: Windline is having issues with their website. Please contact Phyllis at Windline for assistance: phyllis.c@lobostar.com or 310-516-9812 Extension 110
My anchor does not fit into the small anchor locker of my boat. Can I cut the stock to make the anchor fit?
We do not recommend altering any of the anchors parts. The stock is the perpendicular piece of the anchor, and it functions as the “landing gear” for it. The stock helps to balance the anchor once it reaches the sea bottom, and then the flukes fall forward and the anchor begins to dig in and set. Any alterations to the anchor will void the warranty.
How can I change the angle of my Fortress Anchor from 32° to 45°?
Click here to visit our angle adjusting page and learn how to change the angle of the anchors’ flukes.
Where can I locate Fortress Marine Anchors’ trusted suppliers?
Our supplier are located throughout the U.S. and in other countries. For a complete listing, click here.
What is your contact information at the Headquarter?
Our location is:
Fortress Marine Anchors
1386 West McNab Road
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309
Phone Number: (954)-978-9988 or 800-825-6289 (U.S. Only)
Fax Number: (954)-974-5378.
We can be reached via email at info@fortressanchors.com, or use our contact form.
For all tech questions please email techsupport@fortressanchors.com and a Fortress Marine Anchors representative will respond in 24-48 hours.
