For sailors seeking a clean and efficient way to lead lines to their winches, Antal Stopper Deck Blocks provide a space-saving and highly functional solution. These innovative blocks combine the features of a foot block with the holding ability of a jammer, allowing running rigging to be diverted and temporarily locked before reaching the winch.
Available in four sheave sizes – 65mm, 80mm, 100mm and 125mm – and in both single and double configurations, Antal Stopper Deck Blocks are designed for versatile deck layouts on cruising and racing yachts alike.
Antal Stopper Deck Block vs Rope Clutch
Although they may look like rope clutches at first glance, Antal Stopper Deck Blocks are technically jammers. The distinction lies in how they are released:
- A rope clutch can typically be opened under load.
- A rope jammer must first have its load transferred back onto the winch before it can be safely released.
This makes Stopper Deck Blocks particularly suited for temporarily holding lines that are otherwise controlled on a winch. They are not designed to take high working loads for extended periods but are ideal for freeing up winches quickly and tidying deck layouts.
Antal Stopper Deck Block - Compact and Concealed Design
One of the standout features of Antal Stopper Deck Blocks is their compact construction. The clutch lever is fully concealed within the side plates, giving a clean and snag-free profile on deck. Fasteners are recessed to avoid catching sheets or toes, and the low-profile shape makes them safe to step over when mounted on side decks.
The left (L/port) and right (R/starboard) versions are designed so that the jammer handle always faces the correct way for the winch it is leading to. On the port side deck, the lever sits in one orientation, while on the starboard side it is mirrored. This ensures smooth line leads and intuitive operation, even though the port/starboard distinction can feel confusing when imagining other deck positions.
Technical Construction of Antal Deck Blocks with Stopper
Behind the sleek exterior, Antal has engineered the Stopper Deck Block range for strength, reliability, and ease of use:
- Sheaves – Made from high-strength resin, fitted with composite fibre bushes and side ball bearings for smooth, low-friction operation.
- Side plates – Hard black anodised aluminium alloy, corrosion-resistant and fully rounded for safety and comfort underfoot.
- Locking cam – Aluminium cam with an automatic opening spring. Simply easing the sheet is enough to disengage the jammer.
- Maintenance free – No lubrication or servicing required; all components are designed for long-term durability.
This combination of lightweight materials and thoughtful engineering results in a reliable deck fitting that requires virtually no upkeep.
Antal Deck Blocks with Stopper Range Overview
The Antal Stopper Deck Block range is available in four sheave diameters, scaled for different applications:
- 65mm – For halyards, reefing lines and smaller control lines.
- 80mm – Suited to medium-sized sheets and higher-load halyards.
- 100mm – A robust option for larger cruising or racing yachts.
- 125mm – Heavy-duty version for maxi yachts and extreme running rigging loads.
Each size can be chosen as a single block for one line, or a double block for leading two lines to the same winch position. With both left and right versions available, sailors can build a consistent, mirrored deck layout on port and starboard sides.
When to Use Antal Stopper Deck Blocks
These blocks excel in situations where:
- Winches need to be freed quickly, such as during tacks, gybes or sail changes.
- Lines must be diverted at deck level with the option to temporarily hold them.
- Space is limited, and combining a foot block with a jammer saves fittings and clutter.
They are most commonly found on side decks, leading genoa or spinnaker sheets to cockpit winches. However, they are equally useful at the mast base for leading halyards aft, or in other custom rigging layouts where temporarily holding a line is advantageous.
Conclusion on Antal Stopper Deck Blocks
Antal Stopper Deck Blocks bring together smart design and practical function, delivering the benefits of both a deck organiser and a jammer in one compact fitting. With concealed levers, recessed fasteners, and maintenance-free construction, they are safe, durable and easy to live with.
Available in four sizes (65, 80, 100, 125mm), single or double versions, and left/right orientations, they can be tailored to almost any yacht and deck plan. While not designed for holding high loads long-term, their strength lies in temporary line control and winch management – a feature every sailor appreciates when juggling multiple sheets and halyards.
For sailors looking to streamline their deck layouts and improve efficiency, Antal Stopper Deck Blocks are a proven and elegant solution. If you have any questions about Antal Stopper Deck Blocks please feel free to contact us and speak to one of our sailing experts or to see our full range click below:
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Antal Stopper Deck Blocks – Compact, Reliable Line Management