T&T: Anchor Chain Recommendation

[Faure, Marin]

>I'd like to get some advice on size, type and where to purchase.

Assuming you're talking about an all-chain rode, the size has already
been determined for you as the chain has to match the wildcat on the
windlass.  The wildcat should be stamped with the size of chain it's
made to accommodate.  If you decide you want a different size chain
you'll have to change the wildcat, something most windlass manufacturers
make possible by offering different size wildcats for each of their
windlasses.

Chain is heavy stuff if you're after an all-chain rode, so it may be
less expensive to purchase it from a local supplier than to order it by
mail.  The local supplier's price may be a bit higher per foot but you
won't be paying for shipping a spool of chain.

There are several kinds of chain suitable for anchor rode.  We use Acco
High Test on our boat, but you can get everything from basic galvanized
chain to stainless steel chain.  There are some grades of chain that are
not suitable for use in an anchor rode, but outside of these your choice
is largely dependent on what's in your wallet.

______________________________
C. Marin Faure
GB36-403 "La Perouse"
Bellingham, Washington