T&T: Anchor Chain Recommendation

[Bob Austin]

John is correct, and the "Origins of Sea Terms" gives that exact same
defination as he provides. (actually spelled "Gipsy")

  However in my post
I noted: "There is also a Gypsy winch--which refers to any small hand operated
winch, not specifically to one with a chain wheel."

Which also corresponds corresponds to your defination.

I agree that there are many variations of nautical terms, however time evolves
standardized and accepted definitions--"Gypsy" is an accepted defination for a
chain wheel or wildcat. Chapman uses wildcat and Gypsy interchangably (Latest
edition--I finally retired my 1965 copy)  If one goes to the various windlass
manufactures, and chain manufactures catalogues of parts (Simpson Lawrence,
Lighthouse, Vetus, Lewnar, Hutton/Orca etc), "Gypsy" is now a commonly
accepted term for Chain wheel.  Capstan is currently used for the drum
windlass.  (See Ideal, who uses "wildcat" for the chain wheel)

Take care, and don't get your fingers caught in any one of the above!

Bob Austin