The best manual ever produced on rigging a sailing ship, based on extensively revised and updated 1848 edition prepared by Biddlecombe, Master in the Royal Navy. Complete definition of terms, on-shore operations, process of rigging ships, reeving the running rigging and bending sails, rigging brigs, yachts and small vessels, more. 17 plates.

On the other hand, this was written in the 19thC by a sailor at the height of the age of sail, with an intimate knowledge of rigging; so, used as an addition to other works, it is a valuable tool ... but don't expect it to fulfill all your wishes.

2 of 2 found the following review helpful:


Of considerable use for mariners and model builders alike.  Oct 21, 2010 By Ned Middleton
Whilst I spend a great deal of time at sea and frequently find myself wishing I knew the right knot to use or how to correctly splice two ropes together, my main motive for purchasing this book was to assist with my model making.

No, I am not an expert or "advanced modeller" or any of the other titles these devotees give themselves. I just apply common sense and demand a high standard from whatever task I set myself. Consequently, when compared to the models produced by these so-called experts and proudly displayed on the internet, I am happy that my own version of the same kit compares very favourable (i.e. Thermopylae, Cutty Sark and Endeavour).

For a few years now I have owned one of those very large and expensive kits for HMS Victory but haven't dared to get started. When completed this ship will stand almost 5 feet tall (1.6m!) and I know before I even get started that the rigging is the one area where I will struggle - if only because I always have. This book will resolve those difficulties.

No, I have not read the work from cover to cover - it is not that sort of book. Nevertheless, I have studied the content carefully and, quite frankly, it leaves me thinking I could almost rig any ship without instructions - just by using this book.

It isn't just because all the knots, splices and hitches are explained - so that I can duplicate them either for real or in miniature, it's because this book provides a greater understanding of the purpose of each rope and if you understand exactly what a "gaff-top-sail-downhauler" does then you will automatically position that rope correctly.

With excellent illustrations with equally first-rate descriptions, this book has to be as essential to any ship modeller as a sharp knife. Thoroughly recommended.

NM



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