Single Becket Block

Name/Title

Single Becket Block

Entry/Object ID

L2008.117.8

Description

6"; metal in a wooden shell T-14327 - T-14329: From the collections of Greg Stewart and Dave Easter

Collection

Ancient Mariners Sailing Society Collection

Lexicon

Legacy Lexicon

Object Name

Block

Interpretative Labels

Label

Many types of blocks are required to multiply hand leverage on lines, halyards and sheets (collectively referred to as .running rigging," as compared to the fixed "standing rigging" such as masts, booms and spars). Large sails, in particular, can only be trimmed and controlled with the mechanical advantage supplied by properly rigged blocks. Here, we have: a single becket block with wood shell; a bronze "clamshell" block; and the versatile "snatch" block, and extremely useful block that can be used without having to rove an idle line through the sheave beforehand.