Masthead Block

[Ryan]

John

With respect to toggles, I was questioning the use of jaws on the stays, not the blocks. I can see advantages of the shackled block, but I am unable to convince myself not to use toggles on the forestay and backstay.

Brion

So you would recommend toggles on the stays as well, correct? Can you describe an "upset shackle" ? I am not familiar with that term. Thanks for the advice!

Ryan

[Brion Toss]

Hi again,
Toggles on the stays, always toggles on at least the stays that get sails put on them, and not a bad idea on the backstay. Shackles on the blocks, always shackles on the blocks, as these need to articulate even more than the stays in many instances, and in any event don't (or shouldn't) take as much strain as the stays, so don't need toggles.
Clearer?
Fair leads,
Brion Toss