Spade Anchors Aluminum vs Steel

[thomsonjd]

Does anyone have any experience with these anchors? Practical Sailor recently gave the aluminum Model 80 very high marks - however Spade Anchor themselves recommend the steel version for a main anchor. I like the low weight of the aluminum version, but would like to understand what I would be gaining from a safety point of view by going with steel?

[wwilson]

Have you looked at the Spade Anchor web site? They deal with your question on their FAQ page. Here is their URL: http://www.spade-anchor.com

Briefly, weight enhances the set rather than holding power, which is surface-area dependent. Let us know how the anchor works if you buy. I was going to buy one, but missed my chance. You''re right, their performance in the PS tests was impressive. Good luck.

Wayne