In the Chains product group, you will find chains intended for anchoring and mooring in various strengths: 2mm, 4mm and 10mm chains made of stainless steel, buoy chains with 8mm shackles in 5 and 10 meter lengths, and a long-link 13mm galvanized chain for heavier use.
The main function of the chain in anchoring is to press the beginning of the rope against the bottom, which will position the anchor at a right angle and hold better — the heavier and longer the chain, the more effectively it will prevent the rope from jerking directly upwards from the anchor shaft. The strength of the chain should be dimensioned according to the size of the boat and the weight of the anchor: a small inflatable boat can handle a light 2–4mm chain, while a larger sailboat or motorboat requires at least 8–10mm chain for safe anchoring.
Stainless steel (RST) is more resistant to corrosion and looks neat for a long time, but is a more expensive option — galvanized chain is cheaper and just as strong, but requires regular inspection for wear of the coating, especially in salt water. Buoy chain with shackles is designed specifically for anchoring a fixed buoy, where the chain is constantly in the water and exposed to constant friction against the bottom.
Always check that the chain link size is compatible with the windlass if the boat has an electric anchor windlass — an uncalibrated chain can jam or slip in the sprocket, which is a serious safety risk when raising the anchor.
Always keep your chain well rinsed with fresh water after use, especially if you boat in saltwater — salt deposits will significantly accelerate corrosion, even if the chain is made of stainless steel. Also regularly check the condition of the shackles and joints, as the weakest link in a chain is often the joint, not the chain itself.
If you are unsure of the length of chain needed, calculate it based on the typical depth of your water area and the size of your boat — as a general rule, there should be at least as much chain as the depth so that the anchor sits at a right angle to the bottom.
If necessary, seek advice on choosing the right chain size if you are unsure — the wrong size chain can be both a safety risk and cause unnecessary wear on the anchoring equipment in the long term.
Clean the chain regularly by brushing away accumulated mud and sand, which can accelerate wear and make it difficult for the chain to move on the sprocket.
Check the connection point between the chain and rope regularly, as this is where it often wears out the fastest with continuous use.