The Nub is just one of the new bits of kit Yachting Monthly found in Amsterdam at METS 2015, the world’s biggest marine equipment trade show
The Nub is essentially a lower friction (17% less apparently), lighter (at 16g), stronger (4.5 ton breaking load) friction ring, in plastic instead of alloy. ‘Racing,’ you say. And you’d be right, but a cruiser would be wise to carry a couple of these onboard. Let’s say your main halyard turning block breaks, or a cruising chute turning block. You can either drop the sail and unreeve the halyard or sheet as far as the failed block then put another block on, or you can put this over the halyard or sheet and secure to the padeye with a Dyneema loop. A quick fix that could save a ton of money.
Race boats also use them for cascading backstays, lazyjacks – pretty much anywhere. Suitable for 10mm running rigging or 12mm standing rigging. €40 for two
Greement Courant
http://www.greement-courant.ch