Masterpieces of Engineering

[Silkie]

Number 1



Don't know for sure but probably original, hence 35 years old, and still in first class order throughout (like myself - apart from the age) along with the other half-dozen examples aboard.

Could such a machine be improved or is it practically perfect in every way?

[claymore]

Hmm
Well - if this is about fitness for purpose then probably not. If, however we factor in the human element - bearing in mind it was designed for use by such beasts then perhaps it could have been improved for those of us with stumpy fingers, particularly when cold.

[AlbertRoss]

I have several on board and all have the 'piston' with a small 'eye' whereby a loop of small stuff makes opening the shackle dead easy - so there is hope Claymore.

[skeg]

I've been piston by someone with a small eye, but I'm trying to forget about it.

skeg

[Silkie]

(You hardly have to think at all with such a wide range of emoticons.)

[bilbo]

Don't know for sure but probably original, hence 35 years old,

I suppose they're like your sails, then.....


FWIW, I had about a dozen of these, unused, and forwarded them to a certain AndrewGordonBennet of Anitherplace. Maybe I still have one or two of 'em lying around, but they're big, but. East Coast Bawley sized.....

[Silkie]

Bloomin' cheek! They may not be in the first flush of youth but there's thousands of miles left in those fine sails I'll have you know sir.

[bilbo]

Aye! it's a wheen o' years since I was last in 'the first flush of youth'. But I can still remember her, but.

And ah didnae need ony o' yon 'artificial aids' like Links and Auld Mice, neither!