Harken Makes a Big Splash with their Lightest Block Ever

With the new T18™ block’s 125kg (275Ib) working load the 7.2g (0.25 oz) weight, this tiny block is Harken’s lightest soft-attach and the perfect complement to Harken’s popular T2™ line. It installs anywhere and articulates for perfect lead angles. A stainless grooved race and stainless balls vastly increase working load, while the non-load-bearing components are made of lightweight and impact-resistant composites.

“We combined the best features of our tried-and-true 16mm block, with the new T2 soft-attach block line and came up with the T18,” says Product Manager Evan Thompson. “The T18 is ideal for skiff, dinghy, and beach cat racers who are always looking for ways to shave off pounds.”

A select group of racers recently put the T18 through its paces at the windy 2011 F18 North American Championships, installing the blocks in downhauls, outhauls, and other high-load control systems – including the jib. In a regatta that saw 20 knot winds and 5 foot seas, the T18 performed flawlessly, receiving resounding thumbs up from the competitors.

The 18mm block accommodates lines up to 5mm (3/16”) and includes 1 meter (3.28ft) of 1.8mm (1/16”) Dyneema® for lashing.  The T18 bearings and inner race are made with 316 stainless steel while the fiber-reinforced nylon resin sideplates reduce weight.

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