ancore shock links?

[Guest]

What is your overall opinion on these shock links for anchor line's?

What is the suggested length for a shock link for boats in the 17ft- 20ft. range. Is there a rule of thumb for anchor rope length ratio to depth that is user friendly?

Thanks...
"Backwater Eddy"

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"Backwater Eddy"
Backwater guide service
"Ed on the RED"
[email protected]
701-671-3079

[Guest]

I have not heard a great deal of good reports on shock links on anchor lines. Mainly due to the problem of freeing a set anchor. All the pulling is absorbed by the link placed in front of the anchor. Another way to take some of the shock out of the line, is to use a 12"-16" bike innertube. Prior to tying off the line to the boat, run the line thru the center of the tube. Fold the tube together, wrap the line around the sides of the tube several times, then thru the hole at the other end. Then tie the line off as usual.
As far as scope for an anchor line, a 5:1 ratio is recommended. If you are using a chine type anchor you can "cheat" some by ataching a small mushroom anchor about 2' in front of the main anchor. This keeps the front down and digging with a shorter length of line out. But it does get stuck a little easier, and is heavier to pull up.

Rob