Jib fairleads: varying wind conditions require you to “tweak” your headsail fairleads. But snatch blocks shine when you want to change something already in place, like a jib sheet or spinnaker sheet. all do their jobs better than snatch blocks. Turning blocks, deck-mounted blocks, jib fairleads, etc. Snatch blocks are commonly used for quick rigging adaptations, not permanent applications. breaking strength) through any appropriate block. Just loop the very strong and durable line (rated at 10,000lb. You can make your own snatch block quickly with our Dyneema SK-75 Soft Connectors. They’re quite popular on larger performance racing boats, but work equally well for cruisers. This allows the blocks to be extremely light (75% lighter than conventional snatch blocks with the same rated load) as well as more flexible than metal snatch blocks. These blocks use flexible loops, usually made from Dyneema, to take the loads directly through the center of the sheave. Today we have two styles, the traditional style of metal/plastic snatch blocks, and the modern “Loop Block” alternative, including blocks from Colligo, Antal, Karver and Equiplite. Most snatch blocks also have a snap shackle, so you can move and attach them almost anywhere quickly. One cheek opens up to accept a line from the side, so you don’t need the bitter end. Snatch Block are one of the most useful rigging items to have on board because they can be placed on a line without reeving (threading) the line through the cheeks. Antal Mini Snatch Block can be fastened with the Snap Ring (shown in the photo, sold separately) or a metal shackle.

Best snatch blocks