Deadeyes vs turnbuckles

[Matthew Sebring]

First let me say that this isn't a qualified answer - just a general one. I have no personal experience with deadeyes. That said - I imagine it all comes down to the right tool for the job. Compared to turnbuckles deadeyes are more traditional looking, inherently more flexible, heavier, and until recently unsuited to more modern building materials and techniques. A turnbuckle is a simple yet hell-for-stout method of tensioning cable which provides for ease of attachment (swage fittings) and ease of adjustment. Rigging a deadeye to a cable requires more complicated techniques and the materials available to reeve and adjust them just haven't been strong enough (until recently) to stand up to the demands of modern rigs. However, with the advent of high-mod lines there is a new home for deadeyes as all cordage rigging once again hits the water. Seems both have their place, it's just a matter of which is appropriate for the application at hand. With a gaff cutter the deadeyes should certainly look the part but you have to be sure to weigh your building materials, your maintenance concerns, and the practicality of each type when making your decision.