Fortress Anchor for 2510

[CapeCodFrank]

I am considering a Fortress anchor for my 2510 WA. Any suggestions on size? The FX-11 is said to cover a 28-32' boat, and the FX16 covers 33-38'. Would the FX-11 be adequate, or should I get the FX-16?

Thanks

 

[DaleH]

I've stayed away from Fortresses as they are alleged to 'sail' wickedly when trying to deploy, in strong current, as they are so light weight.

I'd also use chain before the rode, with the chain length no less than 1/2 the hull length to full hull length (which many here use). I believe you'll need to drop that slowly though, to get the anchor down without fouling.

If using lots of chain I don't see why the 11 size wouldn't work. Hopefully some who have tried them will chime in.

 

[grouperjim]

I had one, they stick well, but don't unstick so well. You need to be careful how you retrieve it (not "sailor-proof"). I drove over it the very first time to unstick it and it came up like a pretzel ($ouch$).

Like Dale said, I have seen them sail through the water column on the way down sometimes getting tangled in the chain which tends to fall faster.

The Parker likes weight on the bow........don't be afraid to get a heavy anchor.........assuming you don't have to haul it up by hand.

 

[Stank Bait]

Used an FX-11 with 30' of 5/16 chain on a 2520. Bought it after destroying several galvanized iron Danforth types (Boat US). Used it in water from 80 - 200 '. They will hold, however they they will bend too. If you have a winch you are likely to bend them if you get into rock. Never bent it in sand or mud. They are light but with the 30' of chain never had a problem with it not dropping straight down. I can vouch for their warranty. I would call and they would send new flukes and the shank when needed, I asked the lady how many times they would keep replacing the parts, she said as long as I kept bending them. I tried using a hydraulic press to straighten the flukes. Forget trying to beat them straight. Whatever type aluminum that stuff is it is tough. I liked that there was never a rust problem and the replacement was easy, just a phone call. If you will be anchoring in rock, the big Mighty Mite worked, they replaced it if when needed and the prongs could be bent back. No rust their either. Still used 30' chain with it too.

 

[Porkchunker]

Chapman's recommends that chain length be at least as long as the hull length. I had problems with my danforth anchor staying put with the 10' of chain on the OEM rode. Replaced it with 30' and it has been great ever since...even in the swift current surrounding the CBBT. Benefit of that exercise was having someone teach me to do a chain to rope splice...one of the best mariner skills you can have

If I ever replace my danforth, I'll probably go to a plow of some kind. I spend a lot of time anchored over oyster bars looking for croaker, and sometimes the danforth takes a couple of attempts to get it to bite.

Dave

aka

 

[dcunniff]

I have the 11 with 16 feet of 5/16 chain. It is on a 2530, it will be the 11th year this fall on the same anchor.

Dana

 

[TheOtherLine]

Chapman's
If I ever replace my danforth, I'll probably go to a plow of some kind. I spend a lot of time anchored over oyster bars looking for croaker, and sometimes the danforth takes a couple of attempts to get it to bite.

Dave

aka

I know where you can get a nearly new Delta 22 with a SS swivel, 15' of chain and 100 foot of 1/2" line, for free...

I must have found the only open porthole on the entire wreck...... :evil:

 

[StrikeSix]

I came across a delta style 33 lb. anchor. Would that be ridiculous to use on my 25' MVSC? I've been having difficulties using my Fortress FX-16 with my new Lewmar windlass. The anchor holds well, but is so light that I end up having to go up to the bow oftentimes to encourage the anchor to drop. I also frequently have to go back up to the bow after bringing the anchor back in order to properly restrain it. I have about 20' feet of chain with the Fortress. I was going to put on the 33 lb. delta which I think will drop right down and come back up to rest where it is supposed to. I was going to use the Fortress as a spare. Is 33 lbs. too much weight on the pulpit of a 25' modified vee? Thanks. StrikeSix out.

 

[B-Faithful]

[

If I ever replace my danforth, I'll probably go to a plow of some kind. I spend a lot of time anchored over oyster bars looking for croaker, and sometimes the danforth takes a couple of attempts to get it to bite.

Dave

aka

I have a Delta fast set and am going to heavy danforth for oysterbeds. Without the flukes the anchor doesnt like to bite/ Also in very silty areas there isnt enough surface area to hold well in high winds. I only have 15' or 20' of chain though. I am going from a 14# delta to a 22# danforth.

 

[96TL]

I was thinking of going to a 22# Delta, but I don't have a windlass. Might be a little heavy to pull up all the time.

I currently have a 16.5# Bruce with 15' of chain that works well, but I'd like the added security. Never know when the motor will quit, and there just might be a swift current sending you towards rocks or a bridge or something. Thats exactly what happened to someone from my marina last season! His boat landed on a jetty! :shock: