When it comes to sailing, quality and durability are the two of the most important factors sailors look for in
their equipment - and Harken scores high in both categories making it one of the most trusted
names in the industry.
In this article, we will provide you with an overview of Harken blocks and their uses for both sailboats or
powerboats. From Micro blocks to Megayacht blocks, Classic blocks to Carbo Air blocks - at Fisheries
Supply we have you covered, including spare parts and accessories.
We will also take a closer look at some of the most popular types of Harken blocks and their unique features so
that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you. Join us as we take a deep dive into
Harken Blocks and explore why they are the go-to choice for sailors.
Types of Harken Blocks for Sailboats
Harken likes to group their block types into two basic groups - Small Boat or Big Boat Blocks. While that may
seem pretty straightforward, depending on your application, you might be using a Big Boat block on your small
boat - or a small boat block on your super yacht! In fact, there are so many blocks to choose from, it's
potentially a bit overwhelming - but we'll try to clear that up for you below by reviewing some of Harken's most
popular options. Read on to find the right fit for your boat's requirements.
Harken Small Boat Blocks
A good place to start
is with Harken Small Boat Blocks - which is where it all began with Harken. Most of these
blocks are designed to offer sailors easy, precise control over their sails. These compact, lightweight, and
efficient blocks come in various sizes, making them suitable for a wide range of sailboat types and sizes - not
just day sailors. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a beginner, these Harken Blocks offer the ultimate
sailing experience - including quality and durability that you can trust - so let's look a little closer at some
of these great blocks from Harken.
Harken Classic Blocks
This is where it all
began! Harken Classic Blocks are the foundation of the Harken line, with a vast library of
hardware choices available to complement your boat's style. They come in multiple sizes and dozens of
configurations, making them ideal for almost every trimming task. The Classic block utilizes sealed ball
bearings for smooth operation and easy trimming. While not as lightweight or aerodynamic as Carbo Blocks,
Classic blocks provide proven performance at a very affordable price point. Ideal for cruising sailboats, Harken
Classic blocks balance strength and value.
Harken Micro Blocks
Harken Micro Blocks stand out with a compact design, maintaining precision and performance synonymous with the
brand. Versatile and specialized for complex rigging setups, they excel in scenarios where a smaller footprint
and finer control are crucial - such as on smaller dinghies or lightly loaded control lines of boats of all
sizes. Easy integration into various rigging systems ensures a reliable, space-efficient solution without
compromising on Harken's renowned quality. Delrin® ball bearings offer UV stabilization and stainless steel
side-plates add strength. The addition of a cam cleat enhances the functionality of Harken Micro Blocks,
allowing for secure and efficient line control.
Harken Carbo Air Blocks
Harken Carbo Air Blocks represent the pinnacle of lightweight racing hardware
technology. Introduced as an improvement on the Classic line, they are 30% lighter and 60% stronger (!!!) than
their Classic counterparts. These innovative blocks utilize hollow carbon fiber end plates and titanium
components to shed weight without sacrificing strength. With smooth-running ball bearings and minimal friction,
Harken Carbo Air blocks deliver incredible efficiency for racing sailboats seeking a performance edge. Top
dinghy and sport-boat sailors turn to Carbo Air blocks for the ultimate blend of light weight, durability, and
speed.
Harken Fly Soft-Attach Blocks
In an effort to offer
an even lighter block - Harken developed the T2 series, which morphed into the current Soft-Attach Fly Blocks, delivering lightweight performance ideal for high-tech sailing
applications. Fly blocks incorporate a soft-attach system that ALWAYS provides a fair lead and also eliminates
swivel components - so no more heavy metal banging away on your gelcoat. They work smoothly with low-stretch
ropes like Dyneema or Vectran thanks to efficient stainless steel ball bearings that can withstand tremendous
loads for their size. Dinghy sailors leverage Fly blocks for vang and backstay systems where lightweight power
is crucial. Foiling boats and sport-boats benefit from the high strength-to-weight ratio that sheds pounds aloft
without sacrificing durability. Grand Prix racers turn to Fly blocks for cascading purchase systems to fine-tune
sail shape. The innovative soft-attach style allows quick mounting and transfer between lines and can be used in
more ways than you can imagine: a super light but super strong and compactly designed block for countless
applications.
Harken Zircon Blocks
Harken Zircon Blocks are the most efficient small boat block that Harken has designed
yet. These blocks feature industrial ceramic ball bearings mounted inside caged races, which keep the bearings
separated so they don't bunch up, touch, and stop each other - which decreases friction under load. The Zircon
bearings are more than 700% stronger in compression than stainless bearings of the same size and they don't
absorb as much energy before starting to roll - which means they are smooth and fast....so fast! When you need a
block that allows for quick reads and reactions in changing wind conditions (especially light air), this is the
block for you.
Harken Protexit™ Exit Blocks
Designed as an update to
the popular Bullet block line, Harken Protexit Blocks withstand the demanding loads of competitive dinghy and small
boat racing. With the same cutout as Bullet blocks, the all-anodized-aluminum housing carefully guides halyards
in and out, reducing friction despite aggressive side loads. These halyard blocks also boast higher working
loads than previous small boat models from Harken due to the fact that the aluminum sheaves utilize sleeve
bearings with Delrin sideload balls to avoid deformation under extreme conditions. This also reduces chafe on
halyards running through the blocks. Protexit blocks are great for racers that perform multiple hoists and
douses throughout a race course. They offer robust performance and protect racers from gear failure.
Wire High-Strength Blocks
Harken Wire High-Strength Blocks are meant for boats of all sizes that need a lightweight, low-friction block for
a wire halyard or high-strength lines. The anodized aluminum sheave offers strength and corrosion resistance,
while the composite bearings are great for carrying axial loads. Also included in larger sizes (38mm and up) are
sideload balls to minimize friction when the lead isn't sitting properly in the sheave. A variety of sizes and
designs make this a highly useful block for many jobs, including controlling genoa lines, halyards and vangs.
Harken Big Boat Blocks
Harken Big Boat Blocks are a testament to the brand's commitment to excellence. These
blocks are specifically designed to handle the heavier loads that larger boats require, and they come equipped
with reliable features, such as beckets, shackles, and cleats, to help provide added stability and security when
under heavy load. Whether you're racing or cruising, Harken's Big Boat Blocks are a great choice for anyone
looking for a dependable and long-lasting solution. With a working load range from 500 kg (1200 lb) to over 5000
kg (11000 lb), these blocks can handle whatever your yacht needs. Big boat blocks are not just for big boats -
they are for any boat that fits the block need - so here's a closer look at several best sellers.
Harken Element Blocks
If Classic blocks are
the foundation, Harken Elements Blocks are the backbone - offering a line of reasonably priced,
quality blocks that are designed for cruisers, casual racers, and daysailers. Stronger forged hard coat-anodized
aluminum sideplates make these blocks highly durable, while a nylon fiber sheave means no chips to potentially
destroy lines. A versatile cam assembly that adjusts and locks in several positions, plus a multifunctional head
post lock that allows the shackle to operate fixed or swivel in either direction, means this block can be used
for endless applications. Element blocks are lightweight but still very strong - with a sleek contemporary look
that matches Harken's high-end blocks. But the best thing about them? The price! For those sailors who don't
need to maximize every bit of speed out of their boats, the Harken Element series is a perfect fit for most
applications onboard.
Harken Black Magic Air Blocks
Harken Black Magic Air Blocks merge ultra-lightweight performance with stylish black
aesthetics. The hollow carbon fiber end plates slash weight while the black anodized coatings and components
provide stealthy good looks. With Harken's proprietary low-friction roller bearings, and a center cage that
keeps the roller bearings separated to reduce friction - Black Magic Air blocks offer smooth, efficient sailing
performance for racing crews. Every single part of a Black Magic Air block is replaceable and easy to service
(no loose balls to roll off!), making it a great investment if you plan to own your boat for many years. Sailors
wanting both speed and style on the race course turn to Harken's Black Magic Air blocks to save weight aloft
without sacrificing durability.
Harken Cruising ESP Blocks
Harken Cruising ESP Blocks are a more affordable alternative to the high-performance
Black Magic blocks. Their production is aimed at complementing the appearance and functionality of Black Magic
blocks but in a simpler design with less expensive construction - making them more economical while still
remaining strong and efficient. The sheaves feature sleeve bearings to handle high static loads and are ideal
for halyards or limited purchase systems on cruising boats. Available in both anodized aluminum or hand-polished
stainless steel - they are a great option for many applications on larger cruising sailboats.
Harken Stainless Steel Wire Blocks
Harken Stainless Steel Wire Blocks are lightweight, low-friction blocks that can
handle wire halyards or high-strength control lines on boats of all sizes. With mirror-polished side plates for
durability and unmatched esthetics - these blocks reflect the beauty of traditional yachts. In addition to
looks, they have hard Lube-anodized sheaves for protection, strength and corrosion resistance, along with
Snap-fit Torlon® ball bearings to carry thrust loads and sideload balls to minimize friction from unfair leads.
They are ideal for vangs, halyards, and control lines.
Harken V Blocks
When only the very best will
do, you need Harken V Blocks. These high-end blocks feature an innovative design with 3D-molded
carbon sideplates, titanium sheaves, and captive titanium roller bearings to provide maximum efficiency under
load. Their aerodynamic V shape minimizes contact points to reduce drag and allows lines to run smoothly with
less friction while the slim profile reduces weight. Please note that while these blocks are built to last, for
a full life the bearings need to be serviced (greased) regularly. Though more expensive than traditional blocks,
Harken V Blocks offer unmatched efficiency at high loads while spinning freely in lighter loads - making them an
attractive option for competitive racers and performance cruising sailboats looking to optimize their systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you maintain and care for Harken blocks to ensure longevity?
To ensure longevity, it's important to maintain and care for Harken blocks properly. Regularly rinse them with
fresh water to remove salt and debris, lubricate the moving parts with marine lubricant, check the sheaves and
beckets for cracks, chips or edge wear, and store them in a dry area when not in use. Most Harken blocks have
replaceable parts and can be easily serviced - so if you take good care of them, they should last.
Can Harken blocks be customized or modified for specific sailing needs?
Harken blocks can absolutely be customized or modified to meet specific sailing requirements. To explore
customization options, speak with one of our highly qualified sailboat CS representatives who have a ridiculous
amount of combined sailing experience under their collective belts.
I'm on a budget and don't race - what's the best block for me?
If you are not consumed by the need to crank every last bit of speed out of your rigging, there are several
options from Harken that will likely meet your needs. Depending on the size of your boat, Element blocks, Carbo
blocks or Classic blocks offer great features and long-lasting durability without breaking the bank. Check out
the descriptions above to see which series fits your boat the best.
I'm a racer that wants to WIN - what's the best block for me?
If you DO want to crank every last bit of speed out of your rigging, then you should probably be looking at
purchasing Black Magic blocks, Fly Soft-Attach blocks, Zircon blocks or V-Blocks. Depending on the size of your
boat and the features you're most interested in, one of those series should suit your needs and perform to your
highest expectations.
Conclusion
Harken blocks are renowned for their exceptional quality and durability in the sailing industry. With a wide
range of options available, Harken has a solution for every type of sailor. Whether you need Carbo Air Blocks
for lightweight performance or Stainless Steel Blocks for heavy-duty applications, Fisheries Supply has you
covered with Harken single, double or triple blocks, footblocks, fiddle blocks, cheek blocks and more. When it
comes to choosing blocks for your sailboat, Harken is a name you can trust.
We hope the information in this Fisheries Navigator has helped educate you on your choices – but if you have
further questions, please don't hesitate to call our experts at (800) 426-6930.