Windlass
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Lewmar_Pro_Series_Horizontal_Windlass.gif
Lewmar_Pro_Series_Horizontal_Windlass.gif
Windlass
A windlass is an apparatus for moving a heavy weight. Typically, a windlass consists of a horizontal cylinder (barrel), which is rotated by the turn of a crank or belt. A winch is affixed to one or both ends, and a cable or rope is wound around the winch, raising a weight attached to the opposite end.
Windlasses are used in sailing, often to raise anchor on smaller vessels, wherever space is at a premium and a capstan would be too large. The windlass can be operated by handbrakes, allowing workers to stay in place and turn the barrel by pushing the seesawing bars up and down.