Cotter Pin Meaning in Sailing

A cotter pin consists of a small metal fastener used to secure a bolt or a pin. This simple wire device fits through a hole and has ends that bend to stay in place. It prevents essential hardware like rigging pins from falling out during the motion of the boat. Most pins are made of stainless steel to prevent rust in the humid maritime environment. Sailors must check these tiny parts frequently to ensure the structural safety of the entire vessel. One specific example involves a sailor inserting a cotter pin into the base of the mast. This prevents the large metal pin from sliding out while the boat moves through waves. Using tape over the sharp ends of the pin prevents the sails from getting torn. These fasteners are inexpensive but critical for preventing the catastrophic failure of the heavy rigging components. Every well-equipped tool kit on a boat contains a variety of sizes of these metal pins. Replacing a worn or bent pin is a standard part of regular maintenance for every sailor.