What is the length of a standard shot of anchor chain?

The standard length of a shot of anchor chain is 90 feet. This measurement has been established as a maritime convention, allowing for uniformity across different vessels and ensuring compatibility with various anchor handling equipment.

Using 90 feet as the length of a shot allows for efficient calculations when determining the length of chain required for anchoring in specific conditions. For instance, mariners often use a rule of thumb regarding scope, which is the ratio of the length of anchor rode (chain or line) to the depth of the water. Knowing the standardized length helps with planning how much chain to deploy based on the conditions and the distance to the seabed.

Understanding this standard is crucial for sailors as it impacts safety and stability while the vessel is anchored. The other lengths mentioned—75 feet, 100 feet, and 120 feet—are not recognized as standard shots for anchor chain, leading to potential discrepancies in anchoring procedures and equipment used.