Block (sailing) line may slip past the sheave. This kind of block makes a loaded line easier to hold by hand, and is sometimes used on smaller boats for lines like main and jib sheets that are frequently adjusted. Block (sailing) In sailing, a block is a single or multiple pulley. One or a number of "sheaves" are enclosed in an assembly between "cheeks" or "chocks". In use, a block is fixed to the end of a line, to a spar, or to a surface. A line (rope) is "reeved" through the sheaves, and maybe through one or more matching blocks at
Grappling hook Grappling hook A grappling hook or grapnel is a device with multiple hooks (known as "claws" or "flukes"), attached to a rope; it is thrown, dropped, sunk, projected, or fastened directly by hand to where at least one hook may catch and hold. Generally, grappling hooks are used to temporarily secure one end of a rope. They may also be used to dredge for submerged objects. Historically, grappling hooks were used in naval warfare to catch ship rigging so that it could be boarded. A common design has a central shaft with a hole ("eye") at the shaft base to