A compact, high-load Wichard block designed for reliable operation in mainsheet, halyard and rigging systems.

The Wichard #63105 Single Plain Bearing Block combines a 45mm composite sheave, plain-bearing construction and a versatile swivel head in a lightweight package.

Unlike a ball-bearing block, this model uses a simple and robust bearing system: the sheave runs directly on a stainless steel bush. Wichard specifically describes its plain-bearing range as suitable for high loads and static operations.

The result is a practical block for applications where strength, simplicity and reliable load handling are more important than the ultra-low friction required for continuously adjusted control lines.

Plain Bearing – Simple, Strong & Reliable

The #63105 is a:

Plain Bearing Block

Instead of using multiple ball bearings, the composite sheave rotates around a stainless steel bush.

This construction is particularly well suited to applications involving higher loads and relatively static operation.

That makes it an excellent choice for many common sailing systems where the line needs to run reliably under load without requiring the characteristics of a ball-bearing racing block.

45mm Composite Sheave

At the centre of the block is a:

45mm Composite Sheave

The sheave is designed for:

Rope up to 10mm

This makes the #63105 suitable for a wide range of commonly used sailing lines while keeping the overall dimensions of the block compact.

The 45mm sheave is protected by lightweight POM cheeks, helping create a durable yet lightweight block.

Swivel Head – More Flexible Installation

The #63105 features a:

Swivel Head

The swivel-head configuration gives the block greater freedom to orient itself according to the installation and direction of the line.

Wichard’s universal head concept is designed to provide a wide choice of fastening configurations across the block range.

For sailors, this means a more versatile block that can be incorporated into different deck and rigging layouts.

316L Stainless Steel Load-Bearing Components

Wichard uses 316L stainless steel for the key metallic components of the #63105.

The manufacturer specifies:

316L stainless steel head configuration
316L stainless steel load straps
316L stainless steel terminal/shackle

The cheeks are manufactured from POM, while the sheave itself is composite.

This combination gives the block the strength and corrosion resistance expected from premium marine hardware while keeping unnecessary weight under control.

Working Load – 400kg

Despite weighing only 105g, the Wichard #63105 offers:

Working Load: 400kg

Wichard specifies this Working Load for nautical applications.

This makes the block a strong option for suitable sailing systems where significant loads need to be managed with compact hardware.

Breaking Load – 900kg

The manufacturer specifies:

Breaking Load: 900kg

The Breaking Load should not be confused with the normal Working Load.

For equipment selection, the relevant manufacturer figure for normal nautical use is the:

400kg Working Load

The complete system should always be selected according to the actual loads, attachment points, line angles and specifications of all connected hardware.

Technical Specifications

These specifications are published by Wichard for part #63105 and are also confirmed in Wichard’s technical catalogue.

Designed for High Loads & Static Operations

One of the main reasons to choose a plain-bearing block is the type of work it is designed to perform.

Wichard specifically describes this range as:

Suitable for High Loads

Ideal for Static Operations

The simple bearing architecture makes the #63105 particularly interesting for sailing systems where the block may remain under substantial load for extended periods.

Ideal for Mainsheet Systems

Wichard lists mainsheet systems among the recommended applications for the #63105.

Its 400kg Working Load, 45mm sheave and compatibility with rope up to 10mm make it a versatile component for appropriately sized mainsheet arrangements.

Suitable for Halyards

The #63105 can also be used in:

Halyard Applications

Halyards can place considerable static load on a block once a sail has been hoisted and tensioned.

The plain-bearing construction is particularly relevant here because the block is specifically designed to handle high loads and static operation.

Boom Vang Applications

Another manufacturer-recommended application is the:

Boom Vang

Boom vang systems can impose substantial loads on their blocks, making strength an important consideration.

The #63105 combines its 400kg nautical Working Load with compact dimensions of only 97 × 49 × 26mm.

Downhaul Applications

Wichard also lists:

Downhaul

among the applications for this block.

Its compact size, swivel-head connection and plain-bearing construction make it a versatile option for suitable downhaul configurations.

Masthead Block

The #63105 is also designed for use as a:

Masthead Block

This is another application where a combination of high load capacity, reliable construction and low weight can be particularly valuable.

Only 105g

One of the advantages of the Wichard #63105 is its strength-to-weight balance.

The complete block weighs just:

105g

while providing:

400kg Working Load

900kg Breaking Load

Its POM cheeks and composite sheave help keep weight low, while the load-bearing components use marine-grade 316L stainless steel.

Plain Bearing or Ball Bearing?

Choosing between plain and ball bearings depends on the application.

A ball-bearing block is generally chosen when very low friction and frequent movement under lighter or moderate loads are priorities.

The plain-bearing #63105, on the other hand, is specifically designed by Wichard to withstand high loads and perform well in static operations.

So if your priority is a simple, strong block for sustained loading, the plain-bearing design can be the more appropriate choice.

Why Choose the Wichard #63105?

• Premium Wichard sailing hardware
• Single Plain Bearing Block
• 45mm sheave
• For rope up to 10mm
• Swivel head
• Designed to withstand high loads
• Ideal for static operations
• Composite sheave running on a stainless steel bush
• 316L stainless steel head and load straps
• Lightweight POM cheeks
• 400kg Working Load
• 900kg Breaking Load
• Weight only 105g
• Compact 97 × 49 × 26mm dimensions
• Suitable for mainsheet systems
• Suitable for halyards
• Suitable for boom vangs
• Suitable for downhauls
• Suitable as a masthead block
• Made in France

A Strong & Versatile 45mm Sailing Block

The Wichard Single Plain Bearing Block #63105 is a smart choice when you need a compact sailing block that prioritises load capacity, durability and straightforward operation.

Its 45mm composite sheave runs on a stainless steel bush, while the 316L stainless steel load-bearing components provide the durability expected from quality marine equipment. The lightweight POM cheeks protect the sheave without adding unnecessary weight.

With:

45mm Sheave

Rope up to 10mm

400kg Working Load

900kg Breaking Load

Only 105g

the #63105 provides an excellent combination of compact dimensions and useful load capacity.

Choose the Wichard #63105 Single Plain Bearing Block with Swivel Head from Cavo Yachting for a reliable, high-load block suitable for mainsheets, halyards, boom vangs, downhauls and masthead applications.

Key Specifications at a Glance