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Maxwell Windlasses

Browse our curated selection of Maxwell Windlasses. Whether you're a casual boater or an offshore adventurer, finding the right windlass is essential for safe and efficient anchoring. Dive into our comprehensive guide below to explore the key factors that will help you select the perfect Maxwell windlass for your boating needs.

How to Choose a Windlass for Your Boat

Selecting the right windlass for your boat is a pivotal moment in your life as a sailor or cruiser. A windlass performs the heavy lifting of your anchor and rode, making the process of setting and raising the anchor a safe, fast experience.

When choosing a windlass, consider factors like your boat's size, the types of anchoring you do most often—whether it's anchoring in shallow bays or deeper offshore locations—and the type of rode (chain, rope, or a combination) you plan to use.

Maxwell offers a diverse range of windlasses that excel in different conditions, so take the time to assess your unique needs.

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Vertical vs. Horizontal Maxwell Windlasses

Maxwell windlasses come in both vertical and horizontal configurations, and each has its pros and cons.

Vertical windlasses are generally more compact on deck, since they put the motor and gearbox below deck. This keeps your deck clear, but you must have room below deck to mount the motor and gearbox.

Horizontal windlasses, on the other hand, mount everything on deck. This takes up more space on deck, but doesn't require a lot of room below.

Vertical windlasses require the rode to do a full 180-degree turn around the gypsy or capstan, giving it a secure hold on the chain before it drops down the hawse pipe.

Horizontal windlasses only require the rode to turn 90 degrees before dropping below deck, giving it a less secure hold.

Vertical windlasses require a larger hole to be cut into your deck, since the motor and gearbox are below deck and the shaft must pass through deck.

Since horizontal windlasses keep the motor and gearbox above deck, a smaller hole is required because only the hawse pipe and chain have to pass through the deck into the chain locker below.

With Capstan vs. Without Capstan

The decision between a windlass with a capstan and one without hinges on your anchoring and docking needs.

A capstan allows for more versatility, such as handling mooring lines or bringing in a secondary anchor. If you often find yourself in situations requiring multi-tasking around the deck, opting for a Maxwell windlass with a capstan will provide additional flexibility.

Without a capstan, the windlass is dedicated solely to your primary anchoring system, making it simpler but less versatile.

How to Calculate the Pulling Power Your Windlass Needs

Calculating the pulling power of a windlass is partly a matter of matching it to the combined weight of your anchor and rode.

You also need to consider factors like wind and current, as they can drastically increase the load on your windlass. A good rule of thumb is to look for a windlass with a pulling power of at least three times the combined weight of your anchor and the ground tackle. This should provide a sufficient margin of safety.

Maxwell offers windlasses with various pulling power options, from light-duty models for smaller boats to heavy-duty models for vessels over 50 feet.

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