
A windlass is an apparatus for moving heavy weights, such as an anchor, and is located on the foredeck of a boat. It can be driven by a small motor (electric windlass) or a crank (manual windlass). The winch is made up of two main components: the gypsy and the head. The gypsy is the notched ring that meshes with the links of the chain to hoist the anchor.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Foredeck of the boat |
| Drive | Small motor (electric windlass) or a crank (manual windlass) |
| Components | Gypsy, head, winch, notched ring, chain, anchor |
| Function | Hoists the anchor |
| Use | Perfect for boats without a battery or electrical charging system |
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What You'll Learn
- The winch is made up of two main components: the gypsy and the head
- The gypsy is the notched ring that meshes with the links of the chain to hoist the anchor
- A windlass is an apparatus for moving heavy weights
- A windlass is the key component in a full-function anchoring system
- A windlass can be driven by a small motor (electric windlass) or a crank (manual windlass)

The winch is made up of two main components: the gypsy and the head
The windlass is located on the foredeck of the boat and can be driven by a small motor (electric windlass) or a crank (manual windlass). It is the key component in a full-function anchoring system, which also includes a boat's primary anchor, anchor roller, rode, usually a chain locker, and deck hardware such as a chain stopper or cleat.
Windlasses can be used to raise the anchor as an alternative to a vertical capstan. They can also be used to raise water from a well or in gold mining to haul heavy buckets to the surface.
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The gypsy is the notched ring that meshes with the links of the chain to hoist the anchor
A windlass is an apparatus for moving heavy weights. It can be used to raise an anchor on a boat. The winch is made up of two main components: the gypsy and the head. The gypsy is the notched ring that meshes with the links of the chain to hoist the anchor.
The gypsy is the key component in a full-function anchoring system. It is located on the foredeck of the boat and can be driven by a small motor (electric windlass) or a crank (manual windlass). The gypsy meshes with the links of the chain, allowing the anchor to be raised slowly and effortlessly. This is particularly useful for boats without a battery or electrical charging system.
The gypsy's notched ring design ensures a secure grip on the chain, preventing slippage and allowing for smooth and controlled hoisting of the anchor. The gypsy's notches also help to guide the chain, ensuring proper alignment and reducing the risk of tangles or jams.
The size and style of the gypsy can vary depending on the boat's design and anchoring conditions. It is important to choose the right gypsy to ensure safe and efficient anchoring operations.
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A windlass is an apparatus for moving heavy weights
On a boat, a windlass is used to raise the anchor. It is located on the foredeck of the boat and can be driven by a small motor (electric windlass) or a crank (manual windlass). The winch is made up of two main components: the gypsy and the head. The gypsy is the notched ring that meshes with the links of the chain to hoist the anchor.
A windlass is the key component in a full-function anchoring system, which also includes a boat’s primary anchor, anchor roller, rode, usually a chain locker, and deck hardware such as a chain stopper or cleat. The right windlass for a boat depends on the style and size of the boat, anticipated anchoring conditions, and the weight/type of ground tackle.
Windlasses have also been used in gold mining and to raise water from a well.
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A windlass is the key component in a full-function anchoring system
A windlass is an apparatus for moving heavy weights. It 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, pulling a weight attached to the opposite end.
The choice of the right windlass depends on your style and size of boat, anticipated anchoring conditions, and the weight/type of ground tackle. A windlass can be DIY-installed by a boat owner with intermediate mechanical and electrical skills.
Windlasses are sometimes used on boats to raise the anchor as an alternative to a vertical capstan. They can also be used to raise water from a well.
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A windlass can be driven by a small motor (electric windlass) or a crank (manual windlass)
A windlass is an apparatus for moving heavy weights, such as an anchor. It is located on the foredeck of the boat and can be driven by a small motor (electric windlass) or a crank (manual windlass). The winch is made up of two main components: the gypsy and the head. The gypsy is the notched ring that meshes with the links of the chain to hoist the anchor. The crank or belt rotates the horizontal cylinder (barrel), and a cable or rope is wound around the winch, pulling a weight attached to the opposite end.
Raising an anchor by hand can be strenuous, and a windlass makes boating easier on your back. It is the key component in a full-function anchoring system, which also includes a boat’s primary anchor, anchor roller, rode, usually a chain locker, and deck hardware such as a chain stopper or cleat.
The choice of the right windlass depends on your style and size of boat, anticipated anchoring conditions, and the weight/type of ground tackle. If your boat is able to accommodate an electric winch, it is recommended that you have one. However, a manual windlass is perfect for a boat without a battery or electrical charging system.
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Frequently asked questions
A windlass is an apparatus for moving heavy weights. It is typically used on boats to raise the anchor.
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, pulling a weight attached to the opposite end.
A windlass is located on the foredeck of the boat.









































