Let’s Talk About Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye
The Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye is a seemingly simple piece of hardware, but its potential applications for anyone working with ropes and rigging are vast. Manufactured by Barton Marine, these eyes are designed to handle significant loads in various marine and even non-marine settings. I was initially drawn to the Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye because I needed a reliable and lightweight solution for creating multiple attachment points on my sailboat without adding unnecessary weight or complexity.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the sleek and robust feel of the Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye. The ‘Spectro’ grey anodized finish on the marine-grade aluminum gave it a professional and durable look, suggesting it could withstand harsh environmental conditions. The lightweight nature was also a pleasant surprise, reassuring me that I could add multiple eyes without significantly impacting the weight distribution on my boat.
I considered several alternatives, including stainless steel eye straps and heavier-duty shackles. Ultimately, I chose the Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye due to its combination of high load capacity, lightweight design, and the reputation of Barton Marine for quality marine hardware. My first impression was definitely positive. I was excited to see how these little eyes would perform under real-world conditions and solve my rigging challenges.
Real-World Testing: Putting Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye as part of a lazy jack system on my 30-foot sailboat. I secured them to the mast using stainless steel rivets, creating attachment points for the lazy jack lines. The sailing conditions were mixed, ranging from light breezes to moderate winds with occasional gusts.
The eyes performed flawlessly. They remained securely attached and showed no signs of deformation or stress, even when the mainsail was fully loaded in the stronger gusts. Ease of use was excellent. I was able to quickly attach and detach the lazy jack lines using small carabiners, making sail handling much more convenient.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular sailing, including a few coastal trips, the Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of wear and tear, and the ‘Spectro’ grey anodized finish has held up well, resisting corrosion from saltwater exposure. Maintenance is minimal. A simple rinse with fresh water after each trip is all that’s needed to keep them in top condition.
Compared to previous solutions I’ve used, such as heavier stainless-steel rings, the Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye is a clear winner in terms of weight, ease of use, and overall performance. These eyes have proven to be a reliable and efficient addition to my boat’s rigging.
Breaking Down the Features of Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye
Specifications
The Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye boasts some impressive specifications for its small size. It’s manufactured from marine-grade aluminum, ensuring corrosion resistance in harsh marine environments. The finish is Barton’s unique hard ‘Spectro’ grey anodizing, providing added durability and protection against the elements.
The length of the eye is 3mm, while the diameter of the attachment point for ropes or shackles is 6mm. These specifications are important because they determine the load-bearing capacity and compatibility with various types of rope and hardware.
Performance & Functionality
The Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye performs exceptionally well in its intended applications. It provides a secure and reliable attachment point for various rigging tasks, from lazy jacks and barber haulers to mast base tidies and stanchion lead eyes. The eye’s strength and lightweight design make it a versatile choice for any situation where weight is a concern.
While the small size might limit its use in extremely heavy-duty applications, its performance in moderate load situations is excellent. It definitely meets my expectations for a lightweight and durable attachment point.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye is simple yet effective. The smooth, rounded edges prevent chafing of ropes and lines, while the ‘Spectro’ grey anodized finish gives it a clean and professional look. The lightweight aluminum construction makes it easy to handle and install.
There is no learning curve associated with using this product. Its straightforward design makes it intuitive and user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The marine-grade aluminum and ‘Spectro’ grey anodized finish ensure the Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye is built to last. It is resistant to corrosion, UV damage, and general wear and tear. Maintenance is minimal. A quick rinse with fresh water is usually sufficient to keep it clean and functioning properly.
I expect these eyes to provide many years of reliable service. Their robust construction and corrosion-resistant materials make them a long-lasting investment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye is a standalone product, so it doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, it is highly compatible with a wide range of ropes, shackles, and other rigging hardware. Its versatility allows for numerous customization options, depending on the specific application.
For example, it can be used with different sizes and types of rope, various types of shackles or carabiners, and can be attached to surfaces using rivets, bolts, or screws. This allows users to tailor the setup to their exact needs.
Pros and Cons of Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye
Pros
- Provides a strong and reliable attachment point for various rigging tasks.
- Manufactured from marine-grade aluminum with a corrosion-resistant ‘Spectro’ grey anodized finish for long-lasting durability.
- Lightweight design makes it ideal for applications where weight is a concern.
- Versatile and compatible with a wide range of ropes, shackles, and other hardware.
- Easy to install and maintain.
Cons
- The small size might limit its use in extremely heavy-duty applications.
- No included accessories (such as rivets or bolts for installation).
Who Should Buy Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye?
The Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye is perfect for sailors, boat owners, riggers, and anyone who needs a lightweight and durable attachment point for ropes and lines. It’s also a great choice for DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists who work with rigging and cordage. Anyone looking for a reliable and versatile solution for creating attachment points in marine or outdoor settings will benefit from using this product.
Those who need extremely heavy-duty attachment points for very high load applications might want to consider larger and stronger options, such as stainless steel shackles or eye straps.
Must-have accessories or modifications might include stainless steel rivets or bolts for secure attachment to surfaces, as well as compatible shackles or carabiners for connecting ropes and lines.
Conclusion on Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye
Overall, the Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye is an excellent product that delivers on its promises of strength, durability, and versatility. Its lightweight design and corrosion-resistant materials make it a standout choice for marine and outdoor applications. At $22.99, the price is justified considering the quality and performance of the product.
I would definitely recommend the Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient solution for creating attachment points in their rigging or cordage systems. If you need a strong, lightweight, and versatile eye for your boat or other projects, this is the product for you. Don’t hesitate – add the Barton Marine 6mm High Load Eye to your toolkit today!