Creating Historic Model Ship Kits Since 1905

Chainplates are critical structural components of a sailing vessel, serving as the vital link between the standing rigging – the steel wires that support the mast – and the ship’s hull. Typically composed of high-strength stainless steel or bronze, these flat, metal plates are bolted securely through the hull or attached to internal structural bulkheads.

By anchoring the shrouds and stays to the rigid framework of the ship, chainplates effectively transfer the enormous tension forces generated by the wind in the sails into the hull itself. Because they are the primary point of failure for a mast, they are designed for immense durability; however, they require diligent maintenance, as they are often susceptible to crevice corrosion or leaks where they penetrate the deck, making their periodic inspection a non-negotiable aspect of maritime safety.