Anchor & Windlass
Muir Cougar · 250 ft chain
A Muir Cougar electric windlass with up/down foot pedals, 250 feet of chain and about as much rode, working with a hinged-shank (CQR-style plow) anchor that delivers superior holding and setting performance in the worst conditions.
Ground tackle
WindlassMuir Cougar, horizontal, w/ gypsy
ControlsUp / down deck foot pedals
BreakerLower helm
Primary anchorHinged-shank plow
Chain250 ft
Rode≈ 250 ft nylon
SwivelKong (Italy) stainless swivel
KedgeDanforth, stowed in lazarette
Anchoring routine
- Pick your spot, check depth and swing room.
- Head into wind/current, stop the boat.
- Pay out with the down pedal to 5:1 – 7:1 scope (more in weather).
- Back down gently to set; take bearings.
- Use a snubber to take load off the windlass.
- To retrieve, motor up on the chain and use the up pedal — don't make the windlass drag the boat.
Why the swivel
The stainless Kong swivel lets the anchor rotate freely as the boat swings with wind and tide, so the chain doesn't twist — easier deployment and retrieval, less wear on the chain.
