Standard Shot
The lengths of chain that are connected to make up the ship's anchor chain are called shots and are made up with an odd number of links. A standard shot is 15 fathoms (90 feet) long. At the time of its manufacture, each shot of the chain usually has a serial number stamped, cut, or cast on the inner side of the end links of each shot. If an end link is lost or removed from a
shot, this identification should be cut or stamped on the inside of the new end link of the altered shot.
Detachable Links
Shots of anchor chain are joined by a detachable link, The detachable link consists of a C-shaped link with two coupling plates that form one side and stud of the link taper pin holds the parts together and is locked in place at the large end by a lead plug. Detachable link parts are not interchangeable, so matching numbers are stamped on the C-link and on each coupling plate to ensure its identification and proper assembly. You will save time and trouble trying to match these parts if you disassemble only one link at a time and clean, slush, and reassemble it before disassembling another.
The lengths of chain that are connected to make up the ship's anchor chain are called shots and are made up with an odd number of links. A standard shot is 15 fathoms (90 feet) long. At the time of its manufacture, each shot of the chain usually has a serial number stamped, cut, or cast on the inner side of the end links of each shot. If an end link is lost or removed from a
shot, this identification should be cut or stamped on the inside of the new end link of the altered shot.
Detachable Links
Shots of anchor chain are joined by a detachable link, The detachable link consists of a C-shaped link with two coupling plates that form one side and stud of the link taper pin holds the parts together and is locked in place at the large end by a lead plug. Detachable link parts are not interchangeable, so matching numbers are stamped on the C-link and on each coupling plate to ensure its identification and proper assembly. You will save time and trouble trying to match these parts if you disassemble only one link at a time and clean, slush, and reassemble it before disassembling another.
When you re-assemble a detachable link, make sure the taper pin is seated securely. This is done by driving it in with a punch and a hammer before inserting the lead plug over the large end of the pin. Detachable link toolbox sets contain tools, including spare taper pins and lead plugs, for assembling and disassembling links and detachable end links.
