Windlass and Capstans
- Updated on:
- Written by Gary Renshaw
Learn the Difference Between a Windlass & Capstan. Where Did They Go on Wooden Boats? What Were They Used For?
Windlass
A winch, especially one on a ship, the windlass is an apparatus for moving heavy weights. Typically, a windlass consists of a horizontal cylinder (barrel) supported between cheeks at each end, it is rotated by the turn of a handspike inserted into the barrel (later designs are rotated by a crank). On a ship it is usually octagonal in shape to stop slippage, it also usually consists of a pinion and gear system to gain advantage with heavier loads. Due to restricted space on a ship, and as one man could only rotate the drum by a quarter of a turn per pull, the use was discontinued for large ships with heavy loads to shift.
Capstan
A capstan is a broad revolving cylinder with a vertical axis used for winding a rope or cable. Originally this was also operated by turning by a handspike, so effectively a capstan could just about be described as a vertical version of a windlass which took up much less space on an already crowded deck. Later versions allowed for 2 capstans on the same spindle (axis) which could be operated separately. The shape and size of the capstan was proportional to the size of the spindle which by the mid 18th Century had become the size of the mainmast. This is a common trap for model makers, particularly those building from scratch.
Key Takeaways
- Windlasses and capstans are essential devices on ships for moving heavy weights, characterized by their orientation and operation method.
- The windlass, typically horizontal, is used for heavy lifting and anchoring, involving a drum and handspike mechanism.
- The capstan, a vertical variant, occupies less deck space and is pivotal for tasks like rope winding, later evolved to accommodate multiple capstans on the same spindle.
- Understanding the historical and functional differences between these devices is crucial for accurate ship modeling and maritime knowledge.
Learn The Art Of Building A Model Ship
Get started in wooden model ship building today
