Let’s Talk About Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead
The Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead is a compact, yet robust solution for securing lines on smaller boats, kayaks, or even for various rigging applications. Manufactured by Harken, a trusted name in sailing hardware, this kit promises reliable performance in demanding conditions.
My need for this cleat kit arose during a recent kayak fishing project. I was tired of clumsy knots and unreliable tie-offs when anchoring in current. I was looking for a simple, secure, and easily adjustable line-holding solution that wouldn’t take up too much space on my kayak.
The kit arrived in a neatly packaged box, and my first impression was positive. The Harken hardware felt solid and well-made, with a durable black finish. The micro cam cleat itself is surprisingly compact, while the wire fairlead appeared robust enough to guide lines smoothly.
Compared to other cam cleats I’ve used, such as those from Clamcleat or generic marine hardware brands, the Harken kit stood out for its perceived quality and the inclusion of the wire fairlead. I chose this kit specifically because of Harken’s reputation for durability and the promise of smooth, low-friction line handling offered by the wire fairlead. I was excited to get it installed and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead on my kayak during a week-long fishing trip in the Florida Keys. The conditions ranged from calm, sunny days to choppy, windy afternoons, offering a good range of environmental factors. The cleat was used primarily for securing my anchor line in depths ranging from 5 to 30 feet.
The Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead proved very easy to use. The cam action was smooth and positive, gripping the line securely with minimal slippage. I found myself quickly adjusting the anchor line with one hand. There were no initial issues with the cleat grabbing or releasing the line, even when under significant load from the current.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after exposure to saltwater and constant UV radiation. The black finish remains intact, and the cam mechanism continues to operate smoothly.
Maintenance has been minimal. I simply rinse the cleat with fresh water after each use to remove any salt buildup. Comparing this to my previous experience with cheaper cleats that corroded quickly or whose cam mechanisms seized up, the Harken kit has been a significant improvement.
Breaking Down the Features of Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead
Specifications
The Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead features a compact design. The kit includes the micro cam cleat, designed for lines with a diameter of 1/8″ to 5/16″. The wire fairlead guides the line into the cleat, minimizing friction and wear.
The Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead consists of durable materials. The cleat body is constructed from a high-strength composite material, while the cam jaws are made from aluminum for enhanced gripping power. The wire fairlead features filament wound wire, providing strength and flexibility. These specifications are critical for ensuring reliable performance in marine environments where corrosion and wear are significant concerns.
Performance & Functionality
The Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead performs its job effectively by securely holding lines under load. The cam cleat provides a strong and reliable grip, preventing slippage even in windy conditions or when subjected to sudden jerks. The wire fairlead significantly reduces friction. This makes line adjustments smoother and easier than with cleats that lack this feature.
The main strength of the Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead is its ease of use and reliability. Its only potential weakness is its size, which might be too small for larger diameter lines or extremely heavy loads. Overall, it exceeds my expectations for a cleat of this size and price.
Design & Ergonomics
The Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead features a simple, functional design. The low profile minimizes snagging, and the smooth edges prevent line abrasion. The small size makes it easy to mount in tight spaces.
The kit is user-friendly. No prior experience with cam cleats is required. The cleat is intuitive to operate. The build quality feels solid and durable, inspiring confidence in its long-term reliability.
Durability & Maintenance
The Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead is built to last. The materials are resistant to corrosion and UV damage, ensuring a long service life in harsh marine environments. With minimal maintenance, such as rinsing with fresh water, this cleat should provide years of reliable service.
The Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead is not designed to be easily repaired, but its robust construction minimizes the need for repairs. The cam jaws are replaceable. That can extend its life should they wear out over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit itself doesn’t include any additional accessories beyond the cleat and fairlead. However, mounting hardware, such as screws or bolts, will be necessary for installation. There are no specific customization options available for the cleat itself.
The Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead is compatible with a wide range of lines within its specified diameter range. Mounting it on a pivoting base can enhance its versatility for applications requiring frequent angle adjustments.
Pros and Cons of Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead
Pros
- Extremely durable construction ensures long-lasting performance in harsh marine environments.
- Smooth and reliable cam action provides secure line holding with minimal slippage.
- Wire fairlead reduces friction and makes line adjustments easier.
- Compact size allows for easy mounting in tight spaces.
- Easy to install and use requiring no prior experience.
Cons
- May be too small for larger diameter lines or extremely heavy loads.
- No mounting hardware included.
Who Should Buy Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead?
The Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead is perfect for kayak anglers who need a reliable anchor line management system. The Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead is also perfect for small sailboat owners looking for a compact and durable cleat for controlling various lines. The Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead is ideal for anyone needing a secure and easily adjustable line-holding solution in a compact package.
This product may not be suitable for those requiring a cleat for extremely heavy loads or very large diameter lines. Also, those unwilling to purchase separate mounting hardware may want to consider alternatives that include these items. A must-have modification would be to mount it on a small pivoting base. This allows for easy adjustment of the line angle, improving its versatility.
Conclusion on Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead
Overall, the Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead is an excellent product that delivers on its promises of reliability, durability, and ease of use. The price of $45.99 is justified by the quality of the materials and the performance of the cleat. The inclusion of the wire fairlead sets it apart from cheaper alternatives and makes line adjustments significantly smoother.
I would personally recommend the Harken Micro Cam-Matic Cleat Kit w/Wire Fairlead to anyone looking for a compact and dependable line-holding solution for smaller boats or rigging applications. If you’re tired of unreliable knots and struggling with line adjustments, this cleat is definitely worth the investment. Upgrade your rigging today and experience the difference that Harken quality can make.