Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet Review

Let’s Talk About Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet

The Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet is not just another block; it’s a testament to superior engineering for sailors demanding the utmost control and performance. Manufactured by Ronstan, this ratchet block promises unmatched holding power and smooth operation, making it a vital piece of equipment for any serious sailor.

I was struggling with my old, underpowered ratchet block on my J/24; it slipped under heavy loads, making sail trim difficult and frustrating. I needed a reliable, high-holding power solution, and the Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet seemed like the perfect answer.

Upon unboxing, the Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet immediately impressed me with its robust construction and surprisingly lightweight design. The anodized aluminum sheave and cheek plates felt incredibly durable, while the smooth-rolling action hinted at the low-friction performance to come.

Compared to my old Harken 57mm ratchet block and a friend’s Lewmar Synchro block, the Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet stood out with its advertised 20:1 holding power and the dual-sided on/off switch operable under load. These features seemed like a significant upgrade, promising better control and convenience.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism and eagerness; I was excited to test its capabilities on the water and see if it lived up to the hype. The Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet’s promise of unparalleled holding power intrigued me, and I hoped it would solve my sail control problems once and for all.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet on my J/24 sailboat during a club race on San Francisco Bay. The conditions were typical for the Bay: a brisk 15-20 knot breeze with choppy seas, offering a challenging but perfect environment to push the block to its limits.

The Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet performed admirably in the demanding conditions, providing a noticeable improvement in sail control. The ratchet engaged smoothly and held the mainsheet firmly, even when overpowered in the gusts; the wet conditions did not affect the grip or operation of the block.

The dual-sided on/off switch was incredibly easy to use, even under load, allowing for quick adjustments to sail trim. It required no time to get used to, and I found its intuitive design and ease of use a pleasant surprise.

There were no initial issues or surprises; the Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet performed exactly as advertised, instilling confidence in its quality and design.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of regular use in both racing and cruising conditions, the Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. It has consistently delivered smooth and powerful performance, making sail handling more enjoyable and efficient.

The anodized aluminum sheave and cheek plates show no signs of wear and tear, despite exposure to saltwater, UV radiation, and occasional bumps. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a rinse with fresh water and a quick wipe down; the cheek cut-outs make it simple to access and clean the bearings.

Compared to my previous ratchet block, the Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet has significantly outperformed it in terms of holding power, ease of use, and overall durability; it’s a noticeable upgrade that has improved my sailing experience.

Breaking Down the Features of Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Ronstan.
• Color: Black.
• Sheave Diameter: 2-3/8″ (60mm). This determines the rope size and load capacity the block can handle.
• Maximum Rope Diameter: 3/8″ (10mm). This specifies the largest rope that can be used with the block.
• Pin Diameter: 3/16″. This relates to the shackle size and load bearing capacity of the attachment point.
• Maximum Working Load (M.W.L.): 550lb (250kg). This is the maximum load the block is designed to handle during normal operation.
• Breaking Load (B.L.): 3020lb (1370kg). This is the load at which the block is expected to fail; exceeding this is extremely dangerous.
• Weight: 5.3oz (150g). This indicates the block’s lightweight construction.
• Materials: Carbon black Acetal ball bearings, Anodised aluminium sheave and cheek plates, Torlon ratchet pawl, Grade 316 stainless steel forged shackle. These materials ensure durability and corrosion resistance in marine environments.
• Unrivalled 20:1 holding power: This specification speaks to the block’s exceptional ability to grip the rope and prevent slippage under heavy loads.
• Dual sided On-Off switch: Enables simple switching between ratchet and free-running modes.
• Ability to operate On-Off switch under load: Provides convenient control and adjustment even when the rope is under tension.
• Low friction ball bearing system: Ensures smooth and efficient operation, minimizing wear and tear on the rope.
• Cheek cut-outs for easy bearing maintenance: Allows for easy access and cleaning of the bearings, extending the lifespan of the block.

These specifications highlight the Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet’s suitability for various applications, from mainsheet systems on dinghies to control lines on larger yachts. The high breaking load and durable materials inspire confidence in its reliability, while the lightweight design contributes to ease of use.

Performance & Functionality

The Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet excels in providing exceptional holding power and smooth operation. The 20:1 holding power minimizes slippage, allowing for precise sail trim and control, even in strong winds.

Its strengths lie in its robust construction, ease of use, and reliable performance. However, its relatively small sheave diameter might limit its use on larger yachts with thicker ropes.

Overall, the Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet meets and exceeds expectations, delivering superior performance compared to other ratchet blocks I’ve used.

Design & Ergonomics

The Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet features a sleek and functional design. Its black anodized aluminum finish gives it a modern and professional look.

The block feels solid and well-built in hand, instilling confidence in its durability. The dual-sided on/off switch is intuitive and easy to operate, even with gloves; there is virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

Built with high-quality materials and attention to detail, the Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet is designed to last. The anodized aluminum and stainless-steel components provide excellent resistance to corrosion and wear.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with fresh water and mild soap; the cheek cut-outs make it easy to access and lubricate the bearings as needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet comes as a complete unit and doesn’t require any additional accessories for basic operation. However, users can customize its setup by using different shackles or attachment methods to suit their specific needs.

The block is compatible with various rope types and sizes, making it versatile for different sailing applications; While Ronstan offers a range of compatible products, the Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet is designed to work well with many commonly used accessories from other brands.

Pros and Cons of Ronstan Series 60 Ultimate Ratchet