Description
Ronstan Series 20 Ball Bearing Block | Boat Supply Store
Engineered for peak performance on small, weight-sensitive craft, this ultra-lightweight block facilitates effortless control line management. Its carbon acetal sheave and stainless steel ball bearings ensure low friction operation under loads up to 250kg (550lb). The integrated lashing hub and becket option provide exceptional rigging versatility for dinghies and catamarans up to 5 meters.
Key Features
- Ultra-lightweight design at only 9 grams for minimal craft displacement.
- High load capacity rated up to 250kg (550lb) for reliable control.
- Integrated stainless steel hub simplifies secure lashing attachment.
- Through-sheave becket option offers expanded rigging possibilities.
- Durable carbon acetal sheave delivers superior compression strength and low friction.
- Precision stainless steel ball bearings ensure smooth, efficient operation.
- Robust nylon frame and cheeks built for marine environments.
- Includes 750mm (30") Dyneema lashing for immediate rigging.
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Sheave Diameter | 20mm |
| Max Working Load | 250kg (550lb) |
| Weight | 9g |
| Sheave Material | Carbon Acetal |
| Ball Bearings | Stainless Steel |
| Frame/Cheeks Material | Nylon |
| Lashing Capacity | Up to 4mm (5/32") |
| Included Lashing | 750mm (30") x 1.7mm (1/16") diam |
Who This Is For
This block is specifically designed for dinghy and catamaran sailors, particularly those engaged in racing or performance cruising up to 5 meters (16 feet). It is ideal for individuals prioritizing a lightweight, high-performance hardware solution for critical control lines.
How It Compares
| Feature | Ronstan Series 20 Ball Bearing Block | Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| Max Load Capacity | 250kg (550lb) | — |
| Weight | 9g | 23g, 15g |
| Integrated Lashing Hub | Yes | No, No |
| Becket Option | Yes | No, No |
| Sheave Material | Carbon Acetal | Carbo, Nylon |
| Ball Bearings | Stainless Steel | Ball, Ball |
Common Concerns Answered
Does this block require additional fastening?
Yes, due to its exceptionally light weight (9g), this block is designed to be secured via lashing. The integrated hub and included Dyneema lashing ensure it remains firmly in place during operation.
Is this block suitable for very large boats or heavy lines?
The Ronstan Series 20 block is optimized for extreme lightness and is best suited for smaller craft up to 5 meters (16 feet) and corresponding control lines. For heavier loads or larger vessels, a block with a higher maximum load rating would be more appropriate.
What are the advantages of its lightweight design?
The minimal 9g weight is critical for performance-oriented small craft where every gram impacts handling and speed. This ultra-light construction ensures it does not negatively affect the balance or responsiveness of dinghies and small catamarans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum load capacity of the Ronstan Series 20 Ball Bearing Orbit Block?
The maximum load capacity for the Ronstan Series 20 Ball Bearing Orbit Block is 250kg (550lb).
What size lashing can this block accommodate?
This block can accommodate lashing up to 4mm (5/32") in diameter.
What are the typical applications for the Ronstan Series 20 Ball Bearing Orbit Block?
Typical applications include control lines on dinghies, skiffs, and small catamarans, such as mainsheet, cunningham, and vang systems where weight reduction is paramount.
What materials are used in the construction of this block?
The sheave is constructed from high compression strength carbon acetal, the ball bearings are stainless steel, and the frame/cheeks are made from nylon.
Does this block come with a becket option?
Yes, this Ronstan Series 20 Ball Bearing Orbit Block features a through-sheave becket option for versatile rigging configurations.
