1-1-10 Spade S120 model anchor install, on a stock '86 Tayana 37 bowsprit platform with original rollers The Spade model S120 anchor is constructed of galvanized steel. Weight is 55 lbs. The template (see the 2 PDF files) can be printed out in A1 format--probably at Kinkos for about $5, as the full-size image requires an industrial strength, or blue-print size printer that can generate a full-scale replica of the S120 anchor. The paper template can then be taped onto a stiffer material such as cardboard, then cut out and assembled to form a 3D model. The S120 anchor fit perfectly in my existing bow platform and roller, with no modifications whatsoever. We use a Sea Tiger SL-555 manual windlass, which easily pulls up the S120 (55 lbs) with an all-chain (5/16" HT) rode. In a 40 ft depth we are pulling up about 100 lbs when directly over the anchor (anchor weight plus chain weight). The photos show the actual S120 anchor positioned in the bow roller and also, on the bobstay. The assembled template, after cut-out and assembly is shown on the sprit platform (port-side roller) for comparison. The clearances are shown from various angles. The S120 has a snug fit and doesn't hit any vulnerable surfaces; any dings shown in these photos are from the previous CQR. We initially had a 45-pound CQR on the bow, which fit OK, but not nearly as well as the Spade, which seems custom made for the platform, roller, and windlass (to my happy surprise)--of course, it's not. Our initial trials of the Spade provided us with a very positive, strong and quick set, with 4:1 scope in both sand and mud bottoms. We had 20 kts of breeze and tidal-current changes, 4 times a day, swinging the boat through 360 degrees, each time; we were presented with no problems at all with regards to holding our position securely. Compared to my 45-pound CQR, I'd say that the Spade set much faster and dug in deeper in the same conditions. Notwithstanding the limitations of my first few trials with the S120, our first impressions with the Spade were extraordinarily positive. We've never dragged with our CQR, in over 10 years of heavy use (about 750 anchor sets and over 1,000 days at anchor) in all types of bottoms, including rock, heavy kelp, grass, and a range of sand and mud consistencies. Once dug in, the CQR is reliable, however, at times, it took more than once or twice to set the hook properly: typically in heavy bull kelp. And, although we never dragged, even in 50 kts, or in an open-sea roadstead with heavy swell and wind chop; we sometimes felt unsure of our initial set and would have slept better knowing we had some very positive feedback from the anchor digging in, right from the onset. In actuality, we trusted our CQR probably more than we had any right to. The Spade, on the other hand set, seemingly, instantaneously. When we came to the end of the scope we had let out the boat gave a quick jerk, the chain stretched out taut. That was impressive and not typically something we routinely experienced with the CQR. We look forward to dropping in bull kelp and other more difficult bottoms to compare the outcomes, but feel confident that the Spade will handle it at least as well, if not better, than the venerable CQR. The Spade is now our primary bower, and the CQR will take over as our backup. We also like the majority of weight at the sharp tip of the blade on the Spade; the extra surface area of its flukes; and its beefy, yet balanced construction. It lands on the bottom, positioned correctly and ready to dig in (not always true for our previous CQR, Bruce, and Danforth-types). Also, the fluke and shank can be taken apart and stowed easily, belowdecks, if need be e.g., when making a long or rough ocean passage where you might want to remove the extra weight from the sprit, where it plows through waves. The stainless bolt and nut are fastened and then secured by a stainless cotter pin, through the end of the bolt (see photo). The bolt and nut are not load bearing, however, and therefore, they are not stressed and weakened under a heavy load. I would have no concerns with regards to the integrity of the anchor if assembled correctly (use a new stainless, Nyloc nut, and cotter pin, anytime you disassemble and reassemble the Spade). The company now has a subsidiary in the U.S. (Florida), which is making the price of the Spade reasonably uniform worldwide. The Spade is not an inexpensive item, but it is now less expensive because freight and customs taxes and fees for importation to the U.S. have been reduced significantly as a result of the new subsidiary in Florida, which receives bulk shipments directly from the manufacturer, in Tunisia. For further information on the anchor you can visit: www.spade-anchor.com The U.S. subsidiary is now located in Florida and they are very accomodating. You can e-mail Rob Branagh directly for a price quote which includes shipping costs to wherever you are: rob@spade-anchor.com or (321) 863-0912 -- Rich Ian-Frese s/v Anna Tayana 37, Hull #483