mast base blocks?

[grandillusion]

preferences on the 6-8 blocks for halyards etc on the mast base, I'm replacing a mixture or OLD Ronstan and Schaefer thinking of new Ronstan 40 series or Harken big bullet blocks, swivel of course, and i allready know that the Ronstan shackles fit better, so I will use them with anothe brand block if thats the way I go, I'm usink 5/6 Staset line for the most part, thanks for any ideas!

[@last]

It would be useful to check the mfg specs with regard to working load, break strength, etc. Although the harken big bullets would be a ton more free wheeling than the shaeffers if I remember correctly the SWL/Break strength on the harkens is lower due to the fact that as I recall they are using nylon ball bearings rather the stronger torlon bearings that they use on some of their other blocks/products. Could be wrong on all that but if memory serves me correctly the stock shaeffers which are sleeved and don't have ball bearings have the higher load capacity.

[grandillusion]

I am fully aware of the pros and cons of BB vs delrin sleaves, I guess I'm asking what are others using??????

[grandillusion]

I went with Ronstan 40mm swivel blocks, the shackels seem to fit the SS base bettter

[Bob Kirsten]

I replaced the Schaefer last year with garhauer. I ordered the longer base, but they still hang up a little at times. You can't beat their prices.