FAQ: Bruce Anchor

What Size Bruce Anchor for a C34?

Original Message:
FAQ Bruce Anchor Size for a C34
We have just purchased a C34 that will be delivered in the Spring of 2001. I have used with success the 22# Bruce on a Columbia 30 with 6' of chain.

Will it work on a C34 with 20' of chain in RI, MA and Long Island Sound waters?
PLKennedy, plkennedy2@home.com

It might work for a calm harbor but I cruise Long Island Sound and I would not want to be on a 22# in Block Island when the wind comes up. I would use it as a second anchor and usea 33# with 15’ of chain as the first. The 33# has worked great on our C34.

Congratulations on the new boat!
Capt Al

Peter: I've used a Bruce 33 with 30' of chain for the past 10 years and have been very pleased. I'd think that a Bruce 22 is a bit small for a C34. For a second anchor, experts recommend a different type - rather than carrying 2-plow type, better 1 plow and 1 fluke anchor. This covers different type bottoms. If you use all chain or a long length like I do, don't forget to place a swivel between the anchor and the chain.
This allows the anchor to do it's own thing when the chain twists – and the chain will twist. Also remember the "weakest link" saying, so don't buy a cheap swivel.

I used a stainless Anchor Swivel Joint made by the Hayn Yacht Hardware of Middletown, Conn. Tel. (800) 346-4296. Talk to Carl and ask for a catalog. If I had to do it over again I'd get a Toggle anchor swivel joint - now you'll have to do your own homework to decide. I went with stainless rather than galvanized swivel, just like I'd stick with a real Bruce rather than a China made look alike. I took enough metallurgy to know I'd rather trust my boat (on the hook) to the Belgians rather than the Chinese (I don't care what Simpson Lawrence, now sold to Lewmar
says!).
Ron, APACHE #788

We weathered 60-mph winds with our Bruce 33 and we swear by it when anchoring in mud.
Larry & Bert, Amazer, Hull #1461, mazer@interpath.com

We use the 33lb Claw (Bruce clone) with 24 ft of chain on our C-34 in the waters you are going to be sailing. We have always held well. I would think 22lb would be a little light for the 34.
Dave Smith, C-34 'Celestial Melody'

Peter, Get a marine galvanized swivel with a PROOF load to match the chain. I agree with the note from Ron "don't skimp on the swivel!!"
Gary Wiseman, Up Spirits #894, gwiseman@ftn.net

Many available, best bet is to find one that won't hang up on your bow roller.
Best regards, Stu Jackson, #224 1986 Aquavite

I also followed Ron's advice and got a swivel. I have the SS double swivel from Holland Yacht Equipment. I bought mine from Faucets in Annapolis, though I have seen in at West Marine as well. It cost me about $60 dollars.
I like that it's the same width as the chain (by design), so it's easy to pull over the bow roller. I use mine with a 35# CQR.
Dave Chu, MeHa #1342, chudave@sprintmail.com

I also followed Ron's advice and got a swivel. I have the SS double swivel from Holland Yacht Equipment. I bought mine from Faucets in Annapolis, though I have seen in at West Marine as well. It cost me about $60 dollars.
I like that it's the same width as the chain (by design), so it's easy to pull over the bow roller. I use mine with a 35# CQR.
Dave Chu, MeHa #1342

Thanks to all who responded. Without counting any chads, hanging, or dragging, I can say that there was unanimity on the 33#. What swivel to get to join the anchor to the chain?
PLKennedy, plkennedy2@home.com

Important: The opinions expressed here are those of the individual contributors to this page, and not those of the Catalina 34 National Association or Catalina Yachts, Inc. Additionally, this material has not been reviewed by Catalina Yachts, Inc. for technical accuracy. This page's maintainer cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information or the desirability of suggested modifications or upgrades. Please obtain assistance from a competent marine mechanic or boatyard prior to making any significant modifications to your vessel.