On Thu, 3 Apr 2014 20:52:39 -0700 (PDT), Tim
wrote:

On Thursday, April 3, 2014 6:08:17 PM UTC-7, Wayne. B wrote:

On a smaller boat they could get by with

a 45 lb anchor and 5/16ths chain but that still is a lot of weight to

handle.

Wouldn't steel[stainless] cabling be a lighter choice than chain as far as weight and be as durable?

===

Good question.

Many, if not most, commercial work boats use galvanized wire rope for
anchoring, as do some commercial fishing boats like shrimpers.
Galvanized wire is considerably cheaper than stainless and more
durable in some respects even though it is eventually prone to
rusting. Those boats have specialized winches for handling wire
however and prevent it from snarling. The weight of the winch alone
could easily exceed the weight of comparable chain. Probably the
biggest advantage is with stowage space since the wire rolls up rather
compactly. On the other hand large ships and yachts always use
chain, really big chain. For deep water anchoring the weight of the
chain is regarded as an advantage in getting the anchor down quickly
and getting it set (stuck to the bottom). Additionally, the weight
of the chain forms a catenary curve which helps to absorb the shock
caused by wave action and wind gusts.